Watch Out For These Email Security Threats by
Paul Wilcox
Many people in the modern world use email everyday, as a means of communication
for both work and play. However, email does have its downside. Emails are the
most common way to transmit computer viruses and with the spread of email use
comes the spread of viruses.
Viruses
The most common way to get a computer virus is via an email attachment. Usually
viruses are found in executable files, but they can also be present in images
and other file types. Some viruses even email themselves to people in your own
address book, so take great care opening any attachments, even from people you
know.
Before you open any attachment you should scan it for viruses. There are many
anti-virus programs available that will allow you to scan email attachments
before they are opened. Viruses can not only destroy your computer but can
attack network resources such as servers and routers. Stop them before they even
have a chance to install on your computer and cause any harm.
Phishing
Phishing is a relatively new but spreading phenomenon when it comes to email
security. The basic premise of a phishing email is to get you to send them
personal information such as passwords which may let the phishers get hold of
bank account or credit card information. Phishing emails often use the logos of
well-known financial institutions and other companies to get you to trust their
email.
How do you know when an email is actually from a legitimate company or is
phishing for your personal info? Check the link provided; is it actually the
company name used in the email? If you get an email from a supposed large
corporation and the corresponding link has nothing to do with that name you can
bet itís a phishing email. Also, it is rare that any company, specifically
banks, will ask you to verify personal information via email.
Email Backups
Since emails can be lost just as quickly as any other data in the event of a
disaster, you should always do email backups. This can be done by exporting
emails into folder on your hard drive, then including that folder in your
scheduled daily or weekly backups.
About the Author: Paul
Wilcox writes about
internet privacy and security
for the Security Manor website. Get more helpful information and advice at
http://www.securitymanor.com
Source
of this article:
www.goarticles.com
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