Is Email Ever Secure?
Is Email Secure?
The short answer is no. Because email is sent over the internet, usually in an unencrypted fashion, standard email is not secure. This is important or remember when considering what information your company shares by email.
What Can I Send?
It’s better to know what NOT to send. Here are a few guidelines for standard webmail providers like Yahoo, Gmail, AOL or exchange mail.
- Never use a company email address to send and receive personal email.
- Don’t automatically forward company email to third-party email systems.
- Don’t send passwords or username/password combos by email.
- Never send personal information or fill out forms containing personal information such as social security numbers, birth dates, credit card information, etc.
- Don’t send sensitive company data that isn’t meant for public viewing.
- Don’t connect to public WIFI to check or send email or conduct any private business.
Some of these tips may seem obvious, but you would be surprised how often accidental leaks or hacker attacks happen due to simple missteps. Because email “feels” private, it’s very easy for an employee to make a mistake that can be costly. Employee training is critical. Learn more about Email Security and employee training in our related article, “Email Security – What you need to know”.
What if I Need to Email Sensitive Data?
When you partner with business technology specialists, you have options. In addition to basic safety protocols, there are fully encrypted email options available for businesses required to send or house sensitive data. This is common for real estate companies and legal firms, but can apply to many other businesses as well. If this is something your business needs, reach out to our experienced team of professionals for details.
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Email is the most common source of phishing attacks. They typically involve a seemingly harmless email with a link or attachment that, once downloaded or clicked, installs malware or ransomware onto the computer. Learn more about the top five cyber risks you need to know.