- Email spam is broadly defined as unsolicited bulk email messages which usually contain advertising materials. In addition to advertising, spam can also carry harmful viruses, or can be attempts at phishing, a form of identity theft.
- There are several things that can contribute to persistent spam in your email inbox. Although a certain amount of spam can be expected, certain things can cause you to be extra vulnerable to a spam attack. If your email has common letter patters, such as your first name or a common object, spam robots may target you. You may also be prone to attack if you subscribe to many online newsletters or use your personal email address to sign up for online services.
- Spam blockers are a type of filter that is applied to your incoming email to help prevent unwanted messages from reaching your inbox. Most modern spam blockers are included as part of the core email service, and Internet-based email services like Yahoo! and Gmail all have internal spam blockers. If you use email collection services like Outlook, there may also be additional spam blocking software you can use to further manage your inbox.
- To prevent spam, it is best that you keep your email address confined to personal correspondence. Stay away from mailing lists, or surrendering your information when signing up for website services. If you must enter your personal email address when trying to log in or access a website, look for an "opt-out" box that will remove you from any automated lists. Another good way to prevent email spam is to report persistent Spam addresses to the FTC's spam commission.
- Although spam is very annoying, it can also be very dangerous. Spam messages, if opened, can contain harmful viruses and spyware that can severely harm your computer or alter its performance.
