Email Security and Keeping yourself Safe

7 minute read

In the vast landscape of the internet, email has become an integral part of our daily lives, facilitating communication, business transactions, and personal connections. However, the convenience of email also brings with it the ever looming threat of cybercrime. In this blog post, we delve into the intricacies of email security, shedding light on potential risks and equipping you with the knowledge to safeguard your digital presence effectively.



Understanding Cybercriminal Tactics
The University of Sheffield has created an eye-opening video that delves into the psyche of cybercriminals. While the scenarios depicted are not real, they provide valuable insights into the tactics used by criminals worldwide. By gaining a deeper understanding of their strategies, you can better protect yourself from falling victim to online scams.

Educating Yourself for Prevention
Knowledge is a powerful tool in the fight against cyber threats. Being better prepared means knowing what to look out for in suspicious emails and understanding the red flags that signal potential phishing attempts. With continuous education, you can fortify your defences and minimise the risk of falling prey to cyberattacks.

Common Email Scams and How to Spot Them
Phishing emails often masquerade as legitimate entities, such as banks, overseas contacts, or even friends and family. One common red flag is an unexpected email requesting personal or financial information. Legitimate institutions seldom ask for sensitive details through email.
Another tactic employed by cybercriminals is the use of deceptive links or attachments. Hover over links to reveal the actual destination before clicking and avoid downloading attachments from unknown or untrustworthy sources. These precautions can prevent malicious software from infiltrating your device.
Moreover, scrutinise the email address carefully. Cybercriminals often use subtly altered email addresses that may resemble familiar ones. Pay attention to any anomalies in the sender's address, such as misspellings or additional characters.

Remaining Vigilant: A Call to Action
If you ever receive an email that seems suspicious or deviates from the norm, it is crucial to verify its authenticity before taking any action. Rather than responding directly, call the person who supposedly sent the email to confirm its legitimacy. Additionally, you can reach out to dedicated teams, like our support team at 01489 290 001, for further assistance and guidance.

Implementing Two Factor Authentication
One effective measure to bolster your email security is the implementation of two factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a secondary verification step, such as a code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password. Even if cybercriminals manage to obtain your password, they would still need the secondary authentication to access your account.

Regularly Updating Passwords
Regularly updating your passwords is a fundamental yet often overlooked aspect of email security. Choose strong, unique passwords that combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable information, such as birthdays or common words. Set a reminder to change your passwords periodically, reducing the likelihood of unauthorised access.

Securing Your Devices and Networks
Email security extends beyond your inbox, it encompasses the overall security of your devices and networks. Ensure that your operating system, antivirus software, and email client are up to date with the latest security patches. Regularly scan your devices for malware and install a reliable firewall to create an additional barrier against cyber threats.

Being Mindful of Social Engineering
Cybercriminals often exploit social engineering tactics to manipulate individuals into divulging sensitive information. Be cautious of unsolicited emails that evoke urgency, pressure, or fear, as these are common techniques used in phishing attempts. Verify the legitimacy of unexpected emails through alternative means, such as contacting the company or individual directly.

Utilising Email Encryption
Email encryption is a powerful tool for protecting the content of your emails from unauthorised access. By encrypting your messages, even if intercepted, the content remains indecipherable to anyone without the decryption key. Many email providers offer encryption options, and it is advisable to enable this feature, especially when exchanging sensitive information.

Staying Informed About Emerging Threats
The landscape of cyber threats is ever evolving, with cybercriminals constantly devising new techniques to breach security measures. Stay informed about emerging threats and trends in the cybersecurity realm. Following reputable cybersecurity blogs, subscribing to security newsletters, and attending webinars can help you stay ahead of potential risks and adopt proactive measures.

Conclusion
As we navigate the vast digital landscape, safeguarding our email accounts becomes paramount. By understanding cybercriminal tactics, staying informed, and adopting proactive security measures, we can create a robust defence against potential threats. Remember, the key to email security lies not only in technology but also in individual awareness and vigilance. Stay safe, stay informed, and enjoy the digital world with confidence.

If you have any questions, you can contact us or call 01489 290 001 for more info.

This post was brought to you by Baldeep on 20 Apr 2017.

Small businesses are often left behind by IT companies as the aim is to work with the larger businesses. Baldeep started the company knowing that IT doesn't have to be your frustration. Provide great solutions at small business budgets is helping companies in Hampshire to focus on their goals without the burden of IT overheads or downtime.

Baldeep continued developing his skillset and has multiple accreditations to his name including his degree, Microsoft Certifications, ITIL and VMware Data Center Virtualization Certification. He is always learning to move IT forward for your business.

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