Spam is an unwelcome (infuriatingly-so) electronic communication, usually in the form of emails or advertising, that has been sent to a user without their consent.
Spam can take a variety of forms, including unsolicited emails, SMS messages, blog comments, and pop-up ads. It is considered to be intrusive and can often be difficult to identify.
The proliferation of spam is a huge problem for users. Not only can it clog up inboxes with unwanted messages, but it can also cause security problems, as many malicious emails contain links to websites containing viruses and other malware. It can also take up valuable resources such as internet bandwidth, slowing down our ability to access the internet.
The term “spam” comes from a 1970 Monty Python sketch, in which members of a restaurant keep ordering the same dish - Spam. In the context of electronic communication, it has come to refer to any unwanted and unsolicited communications.
Spam is usually sent in bulk, by people and organisations attempting to sell something or promote a website, or by unscrupulous organisations looking to steal information. These emails usually come with an enticing offer, such as a free product or the chance to win something, or by urging users to click a link to a website.
Why you should never send spam emails
Businesses should never contemplate sending spam emails because it is illegal under the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) of the UK. Spam emails are unsolicited and annoying for the recipients, and can also damage a company's reputation. By sending spam emails, a business also risks being fined for breaking the law.
Spam - from a consumer point of view
Spam emails often contain links to malicious websites. These websites are designed to trick users into entering their personal information, or to install malware or viruses on users’ computers. They also tend to be full of spelling and grammar mistakes, which is a sure sign that the messages should be avoided.
Most email clients, such as Gmail and Outlook, have built-in spam filters which will detect and block most spam. It is also possible to install anti-spam programs on your computer which can help to filter out the unwanted messages.
Preventing spammers
To help prevent spam, make sure that you never reply to any unsolicited emails, and never click on the links included within them. If you do receive spam, make sure that you delete the message immediately and never click on any of the links.
It is also important that you never give away your personal information via email. Legitimate organisations, such as banks and online stores, will never ask for details such as your address and bank details via email, so be wary if you receive such requests.
It is also a good idea to use a strong password for any online service you use, as this makes it much more difficult for hackers to break into your account. It is also important to keep your computer secure, as unprotected computers can often be used by hackers for sending spam. Keep security software updated, and make sure that your files are backed up regularly so that you don’t lose any data if your computer is infected with malware.
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Spam emails often contain links to malicious websites. These websites are designed to trick users into entering their personal information, or to install malware or viruses on users’ computers. They also tend to be full of spelling and grammar mistakes, which is a sure sign that the messages should be avoided.
Most email clients, such as Gmail and Outlook, have built-in spam filters which will detect and block most spam. It is also possible to install anti-spam programs on your computer which can help to filter out the unwanted messages.
Preventing spammers
To help prevent spam, make sure that you never reply to any unsolicited emails, and never click on the links included within them. If you do receive spam, make sure that you delete the message immediately and never click on any of the links.
It is also important that you never give away your personal information via email. Legitimate organisations, such as banks and online stores, will never ask for details such as your address and bank details via email, so be wary if you receive such requests.
It is also a good idea to use a strong password for any online service you use, as this makes it much more difficult for hackers to break into your account. It is also important to keep your computer secure, as unprotected computers can often be used by hackers for sending spam. Keep security software updated, and make sure that your files are backed up regularly so that you don’t lose any data if your computer is infected with malware.