Spam is a collective name for unwanted messages and advertisements.
Getting too much spam in your mailbox is very annoying. The chances are that your e-mail address has ended up on a list of e-mail addresses that is used by different spammers. That explains why you're getting more and more spam: they all use the same lists. So you keep getting these messages, even though you've blocked a number of senders, as other spammers can still use the lists.
Phishing is an online scam involving fake e-mails, websites or messages. The same lists are used by cyber criminals to send phishing e-mails.
Fortunately, you can do a lot to reduce the number of spam and phishing e-mails. We will help you on your way with some tips: It’s always better to prevent spam
Avoid your e-mail address ending up on a list used by cybercriminals:
- Keep your e-mail address private. Make sure that your e-mail address is not publicly posted on the internet. Those who send spam and phishing e-mails automatically scour the web for e-mail addresses. Always think twice before entering your e-mail address somewhere. Is it really necessary for people to have your e-mail address? What will they use it for? Often the answer is: to send you advertising and spam.
- Do not respond to unwanted messages. This way, spammers and phishers know that the e-mail address actually exists and is still being used. You will receive even more spam.
- Think twice before entering your e-mail address for newsletters and marketing campaigns. Do you really trust the sender? Are you sure your data won't be shared with third parties?
- Don't forward chain letters. Forwarding a chain letter causes your e-mail address and that of your contacts to be spread, so you will receive more spam.
- Do not click 'unsubscribe' in spam mails. At the bottom of spam messages you will often see a link you can click on to unsubscribe from this type of e-mail. This is often a false link and if you click on it, the sender can see that your e-mail address is real and is being used, meaning you will receive more spam!
Find out here what you can do to reduce the number of spam mails.
Discover here how to recognize phishing mails.
Always forward suspicious messages to suspicious@safeonweb.be
