Data Security

Securing Your Email: Steps to Take in 2024

February 15, 2024

Securing Your Email: Steps to Take in 2024

Email security is more important than ever in 2024. As cyber threats continue to evolve, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your inbox. Here are some recommendations on securing your email this year:

Use Strong Passwords

The first step is using strong, unique passwords for all of your email accounts. Some tips:

Create passwords that are at least 12 characters long, using a mix of letters, numbers and symbols. Avoid dictionary words or personal info.
Use a different password for every account. Never reuse passwords.
Consider using a password manager to generate and store secure passwords. Apps like LastPass and 1Password make password security easy.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if available. This adds an extra layer of security beyond your password.
Change passwords periodically, at least every 90 days.

Be Wary of Phishing Attempts

One of the biggest email threats is phishing. This is when cybercriminals try to trick you into providing personal information or account access through deceptive emails. Here’s how to spot phishing:

Watch for poor spelling/grammar and threats demanding immediate action. Legitimate companies won’t make threats like account closure.
Hover over links before clicking, to preview the actual URL. Watch for mismatched or suspicious domains.
Be suspicious of any requests for personal info over email, like passwords, Social Security numbers or bank details. Legitimate companies won’t ask for this over email.
Pay attention to the sender’s email address. Scammers often spoof legitimate addresses.

Keep Software Up-to-Date

Maintaining current software is vital for security. Be sure to:

Update your operating system and applications as soon as patches are released. These often contain critical security fixes.
Use modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox or Safari. Older browsers may lack security protections.
Only install apps from official stores like the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Avoid untrusted sources.
Use security software like antivirus to detect malware. Malicious email attachments are still a threat.

Use Secure Email Providers

Your email provider’s security features also matter:

Use providers like Gmail or Outlook that offer robust phishing protections. Their algorithms constantly review emails for threats.
Enable email encryption if your provider offers it. This protects messages while in transit.
For ultimate privacy, consider a secure email service like ProtonMail which offers end-to-end encryption. This prevents any third-party access to messages.
Ensure your provider has strong security policies, like using two-factor authentication by default. This indicates a security-focused culture.

Be Cautious with Information Access

Finally, be careful which devices and networks you use to access email:

Use a personal, password-protected computer whenever possible. Public machines may be compromised.
Only log in over secure, password-protected WiFi. Avoid public hotspots which are prone to spoofing.
When using mobile devices, enable remote wipe capabilities in case your device is lost or stolen.
Never leave email apps open or unattended on shared devices. Always log out.

By taking these steps, you can dramatically improve your email security in 2024 and beyond. The threats are real, but with vigilance and safe practices, you can keep your inbox secure.