How to Read Email in Plain Text

View emails in plain text to prevent a malicious virus attack.

With all the viruses, malicious software and spam circulating on the Internet, choosing to read emails in plain text can help prevent an attack on your computer. Even legitimate companies can embed invisible trackers to see if emails are being opened, read or forwarded. However, not all programs allow users the option to view incoming messages in plain text. This is why it is important to be careful about opening messages, downloading attachments and clicking on links from unknown senders.

Instructions

Outlook 2003

1. Launch Outlook on your desktop.

2. Click on the "Tools" menu then select "Options" and "Preferences."

3. Select "E-mail Options" and choose "Read all standard mail in plain text."

Outlook 2007

1. Launch Outlook on your desktop.

2. Click on the "Tools" menu and then select"Trust Center" and "E-mail Security."

3. Check the box next to "Read all standard mail in plain text" under "Read as Plain Text."

Outlook 2010

1. Launch Outlook on your desktop.

2. Click on the "File" menu and select "Options."

3. Select "Trust Center" and choose the "Trust Center Settings" tab.

4. Select "E-mail Security" and check the box next to "Read all standard mail in plain text" under "Read as Plain Text."

Mozilla Thunderbird

1. Open Thunderbird.

2. Click the "View" menu.

3. Select "Message Body As" and choose "Plain Text."

Tips & Warnings

• Free Web-based email such as Yahoo and Gmail do not have an option to view messages in plain text.

References

• Stanford Linear Accelerator Center: Plain Text Emails
• Microsoft Support: How to View all E-mail Messages in Plain Text Format