A guide to email safety

Email is a crucial part of our daily routines, but it’s also a prime target for cyber attacks. From phishing scams to malware, email security breaches can cause significant problems. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you safeguard yourself and your organisation from email threats.

Why Email Security Matters

Emails often contain sensitive information, so it’s essential to keep them secure. Whether it’s personal data or confidential business details, protecting your emails is vital for safeguarding your privacy and security.

Common Email Threats

Phishing: Fake emails that trick you into revealing personal information like passwords or financial details.

Malware: Harmful software hidden in email attachments or links that can infect your device.

Business Email Compromise (BEC): Scammers impersonate company executives to trick employees into making fraudulent transactions or sharing confidential information.

Spoofing: Emails that appear to be from trusted sources but are actually from cyber criminals.

Simple Ways to Improve Email Security

Use Multi-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone, when logging into your email account.

Encrypt Your Emails: Keep your messages safe from prying eyes by using encryption tools that scramble your email contents.

Watch Out for Phishing: Be cautious of unexpected emails asking for personal information or urging you to click on links. When in doubt, verify the sender’s identity before taking any action.

Use Email Filters: Set up spam filters and antivirus software to automatically detect and block suspicious emails.

Keep Software Updated: Make sure your email client, antivirus program, and operating system are always up to date to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about common email scams and share this knowledge with your colleagues or employees to help them stay safe.

Set Security Policies: Establish clear guidelines for email usage and security practices within your organisation to promote a culture of security awareness.

To summarise

By taking simple steps like enabling multi-factor authentication, being cautious of phishing emails, and keeping your software updated, you can significantly reduce the risk of email security breaches. Remember, email security is everyone’s responsibility, so stay informed and stay safe!

In our eBook, Your Guide to Email Safety, you will also learn how to improve your email security and avoid potential traps. Download it for free here.