Email is a vital communication tool for businesses, but it can also be a vulnerability. To protect your business from email-based attacks, you need to put in place security measures that will keep your data safe. Here are fifteen best practices for email security that will help you do just that. Implementing these practices will help you protect your company’s confidential information and keep your employees productive and safe.
1. USE A SECURE EMAIL SERVICE
There are several secure email services available that will encrypt your email and prevent hackers from intercepting it. Some of the most popular options include Hushmail, ProtonMail, and Tutanota.
2. SET UP TWO-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your email account by requiring you to enter a code from your cellphone in addition to your password. This makes it much harder for hackers to gain access to your account.
3. USE A STRONG PASSWORD
A strong password is essential for keeping your email account secure. Make sure to use a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters, and avoid using easily guessed words like “password” or your name.
4. AVOID CLICKING ON LINKS IN EMAILS
Hackers use links in emails to redirect you to harmful websites that can infect your computer with malware. If you are unsure about the legitimacy of a link, hover over it with your mouse to see where it will take you before clicking on it.
5. DON’T OPEN ATTACHMENTS FROM UNKNOWN SENDERS
Attachments can also contain malware that can infect your computer. If you are not expecting an attachment from someone, do not open it.
6. BE CAREFUL WITH PUBLIC WI-FI
When using public Wi-Fi, be aware that hackers could be lurking nearby, waiting to intercept your data. Avoid accessing sensitive data or logging into accounts while using public Wi-Fi.
7. KEEP YOUR SOFTWARE UP TO DATE
Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems. Make sure you are running the latest version of your operating system and email program to reduce the risk of a breach.
8. USE A VPN
A VPN encrypts your data and adds an extra layer of security when you are accessing the internet from public Wi-Fi or another unsecured network.
9. TRAIN YOUR EMPLOYEES IN EMAIL SECURITY
Make sure your employees are aware of the dangers of email-based attacks and know how to spot suspicious emails. Provide them with training on how to keep their accounts secure and what to do if they experience a compromise.
10. IMPLEMENT POLICIES FOR ACCEPTABLE USE OF EMAIL
Develop policies that dictate what is and is not acceptable use of company email accounts. For example, you may want to prohibit employees from sharing confidential information via email or downloading attachments from unknown senders.
11. FILTER INCOMING EMAILS
Use filtering rules to automatically delete or quarantine emails that meet certain criteria, such as containing attachments from unknown senders.
12. MONITOR EMAIL ACTIVITY
Keep an eye on who is sending and receiving emails from your company’s domain. This can help you spot suspicious activity and prevent data leaks.
13. SET UP ALERTS FOR UNUSUAL ACTIVITY
Configure your email server to send you alerts if there is any unusual activity. This can include such instances as a single account sending many messages or the account sending messages to unfamiliar addresses.
14. USE ENCRYPTION
Encrypting your email will make it much more difficult for hackers to read your messages if they manage to intercept them. There are several ways to encrypt your email, including using Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) or S/MIME.
15. BACK UP YOUR DATA
Make sure you have a backup of all your important data, including your email messages. This way, if a hacker compromises your account, you will still have access to your information. Email security is essential for protecting your data from hackers. By following these best practices for email security, you can help keep your account safe from attacks.
