What Are Spam Filters?
While the Internet has made communication easier in many ways, it has also created increased opportunities for spam mail. Spam is unsolicited email sent with the intent of either distributing marketing information, selling a product, installing a virus on your computer or trying to trick you into being part of a scam. Spam filters help to keep email inboxes clean and safe from this type of unwanted email material.
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Definition of Spam Filters
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Spam filters use a variety of different metrics to check incoming email. The filter's algorithms determine whether the incoming email is legitimate or whether the email is computer-generated, fake or possibly laden with dangerous viruses or malware. Generally, each manufacturer has a variety of built-in tools for catching spam, and many spam filters also allow users to mark a particular email or sender as spam.
Advantages and Disadvantages
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There are many advantages to installing a spam filter. Spam filters prevent unwanted emails from getting to your inbox. The filters prevent unwanted emails from clogging your email server. Spam filters also minimize the chances that an email with a virus will be opened accidentally, spreading the virus. They can also help you keep potentially embarrassing or inappropriate emails out of your inbox where your boss or family might see them. One disadvantage, however, is that spam filters may block legitimate emails that you want to receive. Another problem is that they may not stop everything from getting through, thus being a wasted cost and effort.
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Types
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There are different types of spam filters in use. One example is the "rule based" spam filter, like SpamAssassin. This type of filter creates a set of rules to determine which emails can pass through. Another type of spam filter uses a white list or verified sender report, like Choice Mail uses. This method requires the user create a list of approved domains. Emails from those domains are always delivered.
Installation
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In order to install a spam filter, you will need to purchase the software and install it on your home computer or on your computer network following the manufacturer's instructions. Many email programs also have "spam filters" that are built in and offered for free as a part of their service. To activate these filters, you will usually need to visit the "My Account" or "Preferences" menu of your email provider.
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