If you are like the rest of the American public, your email inbox is probably overflowing with advertisements, business data, announcements, newsletters, and of course, important work information. It is tempting to just click away and open-and-discard, but don’t do it! Between Trojans, spyware, and ransomware, your data and your operations can be severely and irreparably affected by just one successful cyberattack that could occur due to opening an email.
By now we all know that opening an unknown email is bad news. But what signs and red flags should you look for to identify an email that may trigger a disaster? Here are a few things to be aware of as you sort through your daily email list.
Be aware of emails that . . .
- Don’t use your name but call you “sir” or “madam” or other vague title.
- Have attachments that are executable files. Generally, attachments you receive will be documents or graphics with the corresponding “.doc,” “.pdf,” “.jpg,” or “.png” extensions. Avoid opening double extensions or executable file attachments.
- Are from a company or person you do not know.
- Have masked hyperlinks.
- Request personal information that could put you at risk.
- Have a threat or demand in the sender line.
Remember that most emails are safe but all it takes is clicking on the one that isn’t that could damage or lock up your computer system. Training employees on what to look for is a business’ best line of defense, as the employees are the ones receiving and reading through the emails on a daily basis. If you need training or help with protecting your computer systems from cyber crimes, call M&H Consulting at 1-(866)-964-8324 for a free initial consultation.
Categorised in: email, internet issues, IT Consulting Services