Tips for Avoiding Spam

Spam and phishing are inbox nuisances and both have the potential to create problems if the emails are opened or links are clicked.

Spam is generally junk mail, sent to thousands of email address at one time. They include, but are not limited to, coupons, donation solicitations, unwanted newsletters, product information and advertisements. Cybercriminals may use innocent-looking junk mail to distribute malicious software and link to potentially harmful websites. Spam can be a part of a phishing scam.

Here are three quick hints to avoiding spam.

•  Enable filters on email programs. Check to see how the filters are set on your email program and if you receive repetitive spam, increase the level on the spam filters. Check the junk mail folder occasionally to see if the filters are working.

• Report spam. Most email programs offer a way to mark an email as junk or to report instances of spam. Reporting spam helps keep it from returning to your inbox.

•  Limit access to your email address. Consider hiding your email from online profiles and social networking sites. Allow only certain people to view your personal information.

Spam can also be found in social networking sites. Remember--when in doubt, don’t. Stay safe!