Feb 16, 2021
2 min read
Cybersecurity x Email Attachments
Email attachments are a very convenient and popular way to distribute files and documents. But, in the same breath, they are also windows for spreading viruses and other malicious malware too!
Some of the things that make email so convenient are also windows of vulnerability. Emailing provides easy circulation, especially when forwarding emails. This allows viruses to quickly infect many machines. And cybercriminals tend to take advantage of the fact that most people will automatically open any emails sent to them (from someone they know or not).
Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from these vulnerable windows while emailing and sending attachments:
- Be cautious of unsolicited attachments, even if they are from some you may know. There are complex viruses out there that can make it look like the email was sent by someone you know when it wasn't. If your instincts are ringing alarms, check with the person separately to make sure the email and attachment are legitimate.
- As with all of my articles, make sure to keep all of your software up-to-date. This adds a solid layer of protection because attackers won't be able to take advantage of known vulnerabilities.
- I mentioned listening to your instincts in the first tip, but it requires its own section. Trust your instincts! If an email (or attachment) raises suspicion in your gut, please don’t open it. If something makes you uncomfortable, there could be a good reason for that. Do your due diligence and make sure the email is legitimate before putting your computer and information at risk.
- Turn off the feature that downloads attachments in emails automatically. Emailing sites off this feature to simplify and streamline the process of reading your emails. But because of the reasons mentioned before, check your settings and disable the feature.
- Scan any attachments you receive before opening them.
- Take advantage of the filtering features that your emailing site offers. You may be able to automatically filter out certain emails to a spam folder.
