Email Safety Tips: Protect Your Inbox from Cyber Threats
Email scams and malware are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Here’s how you can keep your inbox safe from cybercriminals in Singapore.
1. Be Wary of Unknown Emails
Never open emails from senders you don’t recognize. If an email seems suspicious, report it as spam and delete it immediately. For example, if you receive an unsolicited email offering a prize or a financial opportunity, treat it with caution.
2. Never Share Sensitive Information
Banks like DBS, UOB, and OCBC will never ask for personal details via email. Always be cautious when providing sensitive information. For example, if an email asks you for your bank account details, it's likely a phishing attempt.
3. Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links
Phishing scams often use fake links to steal your credentials. Always hover over links to check if they lead to a legitimate website before clicking. For instance, a phishing email may have a link that looks like a bank login page but leads to a fraudulent site.
4. Don’t Open Unexpected Attachments
Email attachments can contain malware. Never download attachments unless you trust the sender. A common scam involves emails from unknown senders with attachments disguised as invoices or receipts.
5. Use a Spam Filter
Enable spam filters on your email platform to block junk mail. This helps in reducing phishing attempts, as most spam emails are designed to steal your personal information.
6. Install Reliable Antivirus Software
Security software like Norton, McAfee, or Windows Defender can prevent infections from harmful attachments. This layer of protection ensures that your devices are safe from malicious software hidden in email attachments.
7. Be Cautious on Public WiFi
Avoid logging into sensitive accounts while using public WiFi at malls, MRT stations, or cafes. Use a VPN for added security. Public networks are a common target for hackers trying to access personal accounts.
8. Use Strong Passwords
Change passwords regularly and use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols to enhance security. Avoid simple passwords like "123456" or "password". For example, a strong password could be "C3curity!Pass1".
9. Avoid Unsolicited Bulk Emails
Do not give your email to untrusted websites to prevent spam overload. Spammers often harvest email addresses from these websites to send bulk, unwanted messages.
10. Keep Your Email Private
Only share your personal email with people you trust. Consider using a secondary email for online registrations. For example, use your personal email for family and friends, while keeping a secondary one for online shopping and subscriptions.
11. Do Not Use Corporate Emails for Personal Use
Signing up for non-work-related services with your corporate email can compromise company security. It's best to keep professional and personal email accounts separate for greater security.
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