Spam Basics

Identifying Spam

Usually, you'll know a spam message when you see it.  Most of the time these messages are automatically moved to your “junk” folder.  If you see a message in your inbox that you aren't sure of, look for these signs:

• words or phrases in the subject like “hot”, “free”, “buy now”, “read this!” or “make money fast!”
• excessive capital letters or exclamation points
• poor grammar or excessive misspelled words
• a request for sensitive information that the sender should already have
• account numbers
• date of birth
• passwords
• personal info that is unrelated to the context

Some spammers have turned to more professional or relatable subjects such as:

• attempted delivery (FedEx, USPS, & UPS have all been impersonated this way)
• account expiring
• important items pending retrieval
• last attempt to contact

Upon opening a spam message you will often see an attachment or link to “CLICK HERE”.  You should NOT open any attachment or click any link unless it is from a sender you recognize!  If you are not expecting a package delivery and receive an email with a tracking link, do not click this either!  Please be reasonably suspicious of any email sent from an address you are unfamiliar with. 

If you are unsure whether a message is safe or not, err on the side of caution and DELETE IT.  If it is important info you needed, the sender will most likely contact you again to find out what happened or why you didn't reply.

Spam Safety

After receiving a spam message, what should you do?  Simply delete it!

• Don't reply to spam messages.  Even if you are complaining or requesting to be removed from the mailing list.  If the return address is monitored, you're just confirming that your address is live, working, and ready for more spam.
• Don't open any attachments.  They can contain inappropriate content or virus infected files.
• Don't click on any links.  Links can lead to inappropriate sites, infected downloads, or even add you to more spam lists.
• Don't call any phone numbers listed in the message.  This is especially true if the number is supposedly the hotline to remove yourself from the mailing list.  Popular scams entice users to call offshore numbers and successfully have them billed for international calling.
• Don't buy anything.  Nobody should be emailing you regarding any account or payment information.  Trusted shopping sites have their own checkout systems or payment methods.  Do not email any bank information to an unknown source.