How to Keep Your Emails Safe from Phishing and Other Attacks

Email has become one of the main means of communication in the digital era. However, email is also an easy target for various types of cyber attacks, especially phishing. Phishing is an attempt to steal sensitive information, such as passwords and financial data, by impersonating a trusted party. Apart from phishing, there are many other attacks that can threaten the security of your email. The following are several ways to keep your email safe from cyber attacks.

1. Beware of Suspicious Emails

One common sign of a phishing attack is a suspicious email. Check the sender's address carefully and make sure the email comes from a trusted source. Avoid opening emails or attachments from unknown senders. If the email asks you to click a link or provide sensitive information, verify further. Typically, phishing uses the names of well-known companies or legitimate institutions to deceive recipients, so it is important to remain vigilant.

2. Don't Click on Direct Links from Emails

Many phishing attacks use fake links to direct victims to fake login pages or sites that have been compromised by malware. It's best to avoid clicking on links directly from emails, especially if the email asks you to update your account information or confirm a transaction. Type the official site address in your browser or use the official app to access important information. This method helps you avoid fake sites designed to steal personal data.

3. Enable Double Authentication (Two-Factor Authentication)

Double authentication (2FA) is an important step to protect your email from unauthorized access. With 2FA, you have to enter an additional verification code that is sent to another device or authentication app every time you log in. With this layer of security, even if a hacker manages to steal your password, they still won't be able to access your account without a verification code. Enable 2FA on your email account for increased security.

4. Use a Strong and Unique Password

A strong password is the first line of defense to protect your email account. Create a unique password for each account and avoid using personal information that is easy to guess, such as date of birth or name. A strong password should have a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. Additionally, consider using a password manager application to make it easier to organize and store passwords securely.

5. Be Careful of Unknown Attachments

Attachments in emails can be a medium for malware to enter your device. Don't download or open attachments from suspicious emails or from unknown senders. Trusted companies or organizations usually don't send attachments in uncommon formats, such as files with the .exe or .bat extension. If you receive a suspicious attachment, delete the email or contact the sender for confirmation.

Email security is critical to protecting your personal and professional information. By staying alert to suspicious emails, not clicking on direct links, enabling double authentication, using strong passwords, and being careful with attachments, you can guard your email account against phishing attacks and other threats.

If you want to increase the security of your email and other sensitive data, Thrive comes with Yubikey technology and other security solutions designed to protect your data. With security products and services from Thrive, you can work and communicate more securely. Contact us now for more information on the best security solutions for your business and personal needs!