What is Spam?

With almost half of all emails being reported as unsolicited, it's no wonder spam tops the list of one of the most bothersome Internet irritations. But just what is spam - and where does it come from?

Source: Spamlaws.com

Although most spam mail originate with advertisers looking to push their products, some are much more malicious in their intent. In particular, identity theft via spam emails has become a major concern. The spamcontroling blog can help you learn more facts about spam as well as how to block spam and how to prevent spam so you can reduce your risk of being taken advantage of.

Another option is using a spam filter. These filters work differently than spam blockers because they don't automatically block any suspected spam email. Instead, they filter them to be processed automatically into specific folders. They also allow the user to create their own "black and white list" where they can choose what constitutes spam. If you love using your Outlook or Outlook Express, you might find our Anti Spam Filter for Outlook page useful, as well as our Free Software: Spam Blockers and Filters for Email page. Information on an exchange spam filter may also be of interest to you.

How can you tell a message is Spam?

There are several indications that can help you determine whether a message is spam, although you can never be 100% that something isn't spam.

Here are some guidelines that might help you:

- is the message sent directly to you? If your address appears in the To field, it is less likely to be spam. Most spammers mask the addresses they send their messages to.

- Is the message from a well-known company or organization, possibly one you are affiliated with? Then it is more likely not to be spam. If you receive a message from a Bank that you have no business with, you should be careful.

- Does the message indicate the email address that you are subscribed with?

- Does the message tell you where you signed up and agreed to receive the messages?

- Is your real name used in the body of the message?

- Are you given a web link or a specific email address to unsubscribe? (Note: Never reply to a message you believe may be spam. This will only confirm to the spammer they have targeted a valid email address.). Also be careful when clicking on a link. It is safer to copy the link into a new browser window.

- Can you enter the domain (or a slight variation of) of the sender into a web browser and open the page of a legitimate business? For example, a message from the sender gwmag@novell.com, novell.com could be copied and pasted into a browser and you'll be taken to Novell's home page.