Key Takeaways 

  • Email security includes protection against viruses, phishing, spam, and breaches.
  • Some methods to secure mail consist of using strong passwords, VPN, backing up important data, and many more.
  • Training employees regarding cybersecurity practices also ensures less scamming. 
  • It is vital to hold security measures to protect your mailing lists. 

Email security is significant for businesses worldwide. Phishing attacks pose a significant threat, accounting for over 80% of reported security incidents. 

These attacks result in estimated losses of $17,700 per minute. However, email security extends beyond phishing and includes protection against spam, viruses, ransomware, and breaches involving sensitive information. 

Here are email security best practices.

How to Secure Email?

1. Download with Caution

Attachments can harbor computer viruses and malware, making them prime targets for scammers. Authentic institutions usually direct users to download files from their websites instead of sending unsolicited emails with attachments. 

To stay safe, avoid opening attachments unless you’re certain they’re legitimate.

2. Use Strong Password

The majority of people are aware of the importance of using strong password policies, but unfortunately, bad password practices are still widespread. 

Despite this awareness, an astonishing 66% admitted to doing so, either “mostly” or “always.” 

To create a strong password, it is advisable to avoid using obvious words or phrases. The randomness of the password is directly proportional to its strength. Consider utilizing password managers, which can help generate and store complex passwords securely. It is also recommended to incorporate numbers and special characters in addition to using long strings.

The FBI suggests using longer “passphrases” rather than just a single word. This involves combining multiple words to form a string of at least 15 characters.

Do You Know?

According to a recent poll of 3,250 individuals worldwide, 91% acknowledged the security risk of using the same password for multiple accounts.

3. Use a VPN

For emailing safety, you need a VPN. If you use VPN for Safari (https://veepn.com/blog/vpn-for-safari/), you can encrypt data in transit. Otherwise, someone can intercept them and use them against you. 

Do You Know?

VeePN’s Safari VPN extension uses 256-bit encryption, which is military-grade encryption. With the current level of technology, breaking this encryption takes hundreds of years.

4. Backup Important Dat

Doing things right doesn’t guarantee protection against phishing attacks. To be prepared, backup your data. 

Consider investing in data backup management software that automates the backup process for email communication, contacts, calendars, and other important data. 

This can also help in assessing the impact of a data breach by searching through compromised emails.

5. Embrace Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Double the protection, double the peace of mind! Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your email account. You’ll need a second form of verification, like a temporary code sent to your phone or an authenticator app. 

Microsoft has a user-friendly authenticator app that works across multiple services – check it out here. Even if someone cracks your password, they’ll need that second key to unlock your inbox. 

Plus, you’ll be notified if someone tries to get in! So, activate MFA for added security and keep those cyber sneaks at bay!

Statistics

6.  Add an Extra Layer with Email Encryption

You can scramble your messages, making them unreadable to anyone except the recipient. Look for email providers that offer end-to-end encryption. 

Consider using add-ons and plugins for encryption services. For example, you can install VPN Microsoft Edge, which will provide additional encryption. It’s like a secret code, without which the data becomes useless.

7. Train Employees

Make sure your employees are well-trained in good cybersecurity practices, like recognizing red flags for phishing attacks. The more your employees know about email security, the less likely they’ll be scammed. 

They won’t open dangerous attachments or click on suspicious links. Everybody in your company should understand email risks and how to prevent them. For example, be cautious of emails from unfamiliar senders with no clear subject line or unexpected attachments; these could be phishing attacks.

Employees should also avoid sharing sensitive information via email, such as financial details or usernames and passwords. Include password protection tips in your employee training program and consider using a password management system. 

You can deliver training through company-wide sessions, personalized sessions for executives, or security awareness tools.

8. Block Spam and Unwanted Senders

Sometimes, there are certain senders you’d rather not see in your inbox – from pesky spam newsletters to persistent salespeople. Thankfully, with a good mail provider, it only takes a few clicks to block them and forget about unwanted attention. 

The block applies to all platforms. Moreover, you can use our spam and block lists to customize existing filters for even more control.

Conclusion

Your business must be protected from cyber threats, otherwise, you risk becoming a victim of hackers. Each such attack can greatly damage your budget. 

When it comes to financial data, mailing lists, and customer details at stake, it’s vital to uphold the utmost security measures. Don’t miss out on these invaluable tips to safeguard your domain from fraudulent emails!

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