Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority SPAM What is spam? Spam are unwanted messages or mail sent to an email account. This is usually referred to as “junk mail” What kind of unwanted messages does spam bring? The spam messages vary. They range from promoting products and services to sending fraudulent information. This also includes trying to get people’s bank account details or credit card using false information that someone has won something. It is important to note a bulk of spam messages usually can contain computer viruses, clog up your inbox, irritate and offend customers. In businesses or mobile phones it reduces productivity, disrupts email, intrudes consumer’s privacy and conceals one’s ability to receive urgent sms/ emails . Is SPAM a Zambian problem only? No, spam is a world-wide problem. According to the Australian Communication and Media Authority website “Spam now makes up the majority of email traffic. “ How can one differentiate between SPAM, or legitimate messages sent to phones/emails? Permission- Sms or emails have to be sent with your consent. Subscribe or Unsubscribe - Every email message is to be accompanied by information allowing a person to opt in and out Credentials – The information of the person or organisation sending the messages should be authorised and not fraudulent. How can one avoid SPAM messages on their email? Rule 1: Contact your internet service provider about SPAM problems. Get an anti - spam software which will filter your emails. For example; google the ten top anti- spam softwares Rule 2 – Avoid displaying your email address for example face book. Give non-personal email address, such as: info@example online. Use web-based forms for visitors to communicate. In other words protect your email and mobile online Rule 3 – If your profile has been hacked shut it down ASAP Rule 4 – Use secure websites for shopping and banking Rule 5 – Do not respond to suspicious sms or emails. Delete them Rule 6 – Always check the terms and conditions of the sms or email sent before signing up. Rule 7 – Always be a step ahead by being knowledgeable on email scams and how to prevent SPAM.
Posted on: Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:54:17 +0000