How does a spam filter work?

How does a spam filter work?
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1 Answer

Answer :

Most ISPs and email programs now include an automatic spam filter, which reduces the number of unwelcome email messages that make it to your inbox. Delete, without opening, any spam or “junk mail” that gets through the filter. Check your “junk mail” folder on a regular basis to make sure that emails you want to see are not being flagged as junk. You can also add the email addresses of people and companies you want to hear from to your address books, which may save them from being flagged as junk.
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Related questions

I received an email with an attachment from someone I don’t know. What should I do?

Description : I received an email with an attachment from someone I don’t know. What should I do?

Last Answer : Be careful about opening attachments-the file you receive could contain a virus, spyware, or inappropriate content. Likewise, be careful about visiting unfamiliar websites, downloading free ... unwanted software in the download. And unauthorized file sharing of copyrighted material is illegal.

Are there any special precautions for users who access the Internet on a public computer?

Description : Are there any special precautions for users who access the Internet on a public computer?

Last Answer : It's a good idea not to let your Web browser save sensitive ID and passwords, like your bank account login or your credit card info for one-click shopping. This is especially important at shared ... visited. Use your browser's Help function to find out how to use private-or incognito -browsing.

Can I use a debit card when shopping online?

Description : Can I use a debit card when shopping online?

Last Answer : You can, but it is safer to use a credit card. The maximum liability for unauthorized charges on a credit card is $50. Liability for unauthorized use on a debit card can be much higher, ... you out and you would be without money until your bank investigates the loss and makes provisional credit.

I like to shop online, but I worry about entering my personal information at various sites. How can I tell if a site is safe?

Description : I like to shop online, but I worry about entering my personal information at various sites. How can I tell if a site is safe?

Last Answer : First of all, shop only with online merchants you trust. Consider entering your payment card numbers each time you purchase something, instead of allowing the site to store your number for future purchases. Then ... the site. Simply enter the site's name plus the word complaints in a Web browser.

I plan to get rid of my computer and get a new one. How can I make sure nobody can access the data on my old machine?

Description : I plan to get rid of my computer and get a new one. How can I make sure nobody can access the data on my old machine?

Last Answer : It's necessary to erase your hard drive completely and permanently before selling, donating or disposing of your computer. (Simply deleting files isn't enough.) Some operating systems come with their own ... or hard drive to a trusted local computer repair shop and ask them to overwrite your files.

How do I know when to update my software?

Description : How do I know when to update my software?

Last Answer : Set your operating system and other software to update automatically. You can choose to run updates at convenient times when you are not using the computer.

How can I make sure I don’t permanently lose important data on my computer?

Description : How can I make sure I don’t permanently lose important data on my computer?

Last Answer : Because there’s no guarantee that a virus or malware won’t corrupt your data, your best defense is to back up your files regularly—that means at least once a week. StaySafe.org offers information and instructions for backing up important files. Most new computers come with automatic backup settings.

What kind of tools are available to help keep my children safe online?

Description : What kind of tools are available to help keep my children safe online?

Last Answer : Special software designed to manage Internet use can help you keep your children and teens safer. Most operating systems also include settings you can use to keep your kids safe online. Learn about family safety tools at kids.getnetwise.org/tools.

Should I be worried about my children and teens using the Internet?

Description : Should I be worried about my children and teens using the Internet?

Last Answer : You shouldn't be worried, but you should be cautious. Here are some tips: 4 Discuss the various risks of Internet use. 4 Set clear rules about what your kids can do and which ... about any threatening or inappropriate communication, including bullying. 4 Explain why it's wrong to bully others.

Can companies and marketers collect data from my children?

Description : Can companies and marketers collect data from my children?

Last Answer : The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act [COPPA] requires sites to obtain parental consent for the collection or use of any personal information from children under 13. Still, instruct your children ... activity by teens, who may be susceptible to activities that are not in their best interest.

What are cookies, and what do they do?

Description : What are cookies, and what do they do?

Last Answer : A cookie is a piece of information stored on an Internet user's computer by a Web browser. It allows the site being visited to record such things as the visitor's shopping cart contents and user ... This means the site will not retain any of your information or recognize you as a returning visitor.

How can I avoid online marketers?

Description : How can I avoid online marketers?

Last Answer : The best way to reduce the amount of online marketing you're subjected to is by guarding your personal information while on the Web. In other words, reveal as little as possible about yourself at ... inbox as clear of unwanted messages as possible. There are many free email services to choose from.

What is a privacy policy, and where do I find it?

Description : What is a privacy policy, and where do I find it?

Last Answer : Legitimate companies will have a privacy policy that clearly states when and how the company might use your information. Leave the site if you are not satisfied that your privacy will be protected. ... mark logos on the site, such as TRUSTe and BBBOnline, that certify trustworthy privacy policies.

How do I know if a site will use my information for marketing purposes?

Description : How do I know if a site will use my information for marketing purposes?

Last Answer : Read the “Privacy Policy” for sites you interact with to learn how they could use your information and whether or not they will sell or trade your contact information.

How do online marketers get my information?

Description : How do online marketers get my information?

Last Answer : Anytime you fill out a form, enter an online contest, or otherwise submit information electronically there is the potential it will be used for marketing purposes-by the company whose site you are ... to access free Web services, join social networks, play online games and visit virtual worlds.

Why should I care about reducing my exposure to online marketers?

Description : Why should I care about reducing my exposure to online marketers?

Last Answer : Unwanted marketing messages can be a nuisance and even, in some cases, an invasion of your privacy. Parents of children and teens should be vigilant about websites that market to youngsters, because ... exploit young people by inducing them to desire things that are not in their best interest.

I’m having trouble updating my old computer. Why?

Description : I’m having trouble updating my old computer. Why?

Last Answer : If you have an older computer, you may no longer receive updates and security patches, and the manufacturer probably does not offer support for your computer. New versions of browsers have important ... dropped in price so that a new-and more powerful-computer can be purchased for around $400.

Is it safe to send sensitive data via email or instant messaging (IM)?

Description : Is it safe to send sensitive data via email or instant messaging (IM)?

Last Answer : No, you shouldn’t send sensitive personal information like credit card numbers, passwords, your date of birth or Social Security number using email or IM on your computer or any other Web-enabled devices such as a smartphone, tablet or personal digital assistant (PDA).

Is it safe to use the Internet at my local library?

Description : Is it safe to use the Internet at my local library?

Last Answer : If you follow some basic guidelines, you can use your library's computers without compromising your safety or privacy: 4 Never save your log-on information to websites on a public computer. ... t enter your credit card or bank account number or other sensitive information into any public computer.

What precautions should I take when using public wi-fi?

Description : What precautions should I take when using public wi-fi?

Last Answer : Today most laptops have the ability to connect to wireless Internet networks (wi-fi). These can be found in public places such as coffee shops, airports, hotels, etc. Be cautious about entering personal ... (the s stands for secure). Turn off your wireless connection when you're not using it.

What is a wireless network, and how do I make mine secure?

Description : What is a wireless network, and how do I make mine secure?

Last Answer : A wireless network (wi-fi) is a common way for computer users to access the Internet at home or work using radio waves rather than cables to transmit data. Leaving your network unlocked ... for the default password that comes from the manufacturer and ensure that you have a secure connection.

What makes a password strong?

Description : What makes a password strong?

Last Answer : A strong password includes a seemingly random string of letters, numbers and symbols. It should never include personal information such as your birth date, address or pet's name. The longer ... Try for least eight characters, including upper and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols, if allowed.

What does it mean to “update” my computer and software?

Description : What does it mean to “update” my computer and software?

Last Answer : Computer and software companies frequently update their programs to include protection against the newest security threats. So, simply updating your operating system and software whenever new versions become available gives ... down, so set your computer to update at times you are not using it.

What is antispyware?

Description : What is antispyware?

Last Answer : Spyware is software that tracks your computer activity, gathering information without your knowing it. Antispyware is software that blocks or removes spyware. Some virus protection products include antispyware features. Like antivirus software, antispyware needs to be updated regularly.

What is antivirus software?

Description : What is antivirus software?

Last Answer : Antivirus software scans everything that goes into your computer, looking for known viruses. Because new viruses are created all the time, you have to update your antivirus software ... to virus protection software that automatically installs updates to your computer as they become available.

What is a firewall?

Description : What is a firewall?

Last Answer : A firewall is a virtual barrier between your computer and the Internet. Everything coming into or leaving your computer must go through the firewall, which blocks anything that doesn't meet specific security ... 8, for example) to locate the built-in firewall and determine whether it's turned on.

What can I do to protect myself?

Description : What can I do to protect myself?

Last Answer : There are many practices and tools that will help you protect your computer and data. 4 Use a firewall. 4 Install antivirus software. 4 Install antispyware. 4 Use a spam filter. 4 Perform timely updates. 4 Create strong passwords. 4 Secure your wireless network.

Why would someone want to steal or damage the data on my computer?

Description : Why would someone want to steal or damage the data on my computer?

Last Answer : Some people commit malicious acts with no other goal than to create problems for others. Theft, on the other hand, generally has the goal of financial gain through the use of the stolen information.

How can I avoid malicious websites?

Description : How can I avoid malicious websites?

Last Answer : Never click on, or copy and paste, links that are sent to you by people or companies you don't know. If you want to verify that the site is legitimate, type (don't copy) the homepage ... bar. When doing an online search, visit only results that are well known and trusted sources of information.

What’s the difference between a virus, a worm, a Trojan and spyware?

Description : What’s the difference between a virus, a worm, a Trojan and spyware?

Last Answer : All these types of malicious software, or malware, pose a serious threat to your computer and data. 4 A virus invades a computer and copies, deletes or damages data. 4 A worm is a ... numerous pop-up ads, and may steal your personal information or change your computer settings without your knowing.

What does a phishing email look like?

Description : What does a phishing email look like?

Last Answer : Typically, a phishing email appears to come from a financial institution, a large company, a chain store, a social networking site, or a government agency. The messages try to mimic a legitimate site by ... or phone directory. And remember, if something appears too good to be true, it probably is.

How do crooks and con artists find their victims online?

Description : How do crooks and con artists find their victims online?

Last Answer : Crooks and scammers have many ways to find their potential victims, and they're constantly coming up with new ones. Beware of: 4 Phishing-an attempt to hook you into revealing your personal ... meet online contacts in person may be at risk; or the sites may compromise your personal information.

What are some of the risks that Internet users face?

Description : What are some of the risks that Internet users face?

Last Answer : The main risks Internet users face include: 4 Inappropriate or unwanted contact (cyberbullying and spamming, for example) 4 Inappropriate or inaccurate content (pornography and hate sites, for example) 4 Deceptive or fraudulent commerce (counterfeit and malicious sites, for example)

Gmail "report as spam" filter not working?

Description : Gmail "report as spam" filter not working?

Last Answer : It may not actually be spam (according to Google). Here’s how to fix it so you don’t have to do it: Go to settings> Filters>Create a new filter>From (the address you’re getting spam from, or what they call themselves – ie Gays.com)>Next step>Apply the label “trash” or “Imap trash”>Create filter

Is there a spam filter for Microsoft Entourage?

Description : Is there a spam filter for Microsoft Entourage?

Last Answer : yes.

What is the best anti spam filter for Exchange 2003?

Description : What is the best anti spam filter for Exchange 2003?

Last Answer : We use XWall. I have not used other filters, so I have nothing to compare it to, but Xwall is pretty easy to use and it’s robust.

How does Facebook spam work?

Description : How does Facebook spam work?

Last Answer : This looks like a use of clickjacking.

What is the weirdest place you have gotten a spam call from?

Description : What is the weirdest place you have gotten a spam call from?

Last Answer : Indonesia. Why would I, a 33 year old female who lives in Los Angeles and has never been anywhere aside from Mexico or Canada on family vacations, answer a call from Indonesia

Are you suddenly getting many spam emails with only a name and no subject?

Description : Are you suddenly getting many spam emails with only a name and no subject?

Last Answer : I have been getting a lot of text spam lately. It’s usually in a group text with me and 15 or 20 others. What’s really annoying is about half of those people text back angry texts telling the sender to stop. So I then get 15 more texts! I haven’t noticed an uptick in spam email though.

If I wanted to spam people the way I get spammed, how would I do it?

Description : If I wanted to spam people the way I get spammed, how would I do it?

Last Answer : There are publicly available username/password lists from hacked websites. Since many of them require email addresses, you could write some code to extract them into a separate file. You could also write code ... the mails, you would have an email server running, and you'd spoof the from address.

Has anyone else noticed the new "spam risk" thing on your phones recently?

Description : Has anyone else noticed the new "spam risk" thing on your phones recently?

Last Answer : With our slew of school age grand children, ranging from 1st grade to 7th grade. I think this is the best the to come down the pike. I was tired of answering unknown calls all day, on the chance ... code. I'm wondering if this is something new, and I have just been missing out for some reason.

What can be done about excessive robocalls and spam calls?

Description : What can be done about excessive robocalls and spam calls?

Last Answer : I'm guessing she has a land line, with no easy way to block calls. So have I, and it is a persistent, annoying problem. It disturbs my peace, breaks my train of thought, intrudes on my attention, ... me for service on a device that is mostly used by entities that just want to part me from my money?

Is there a way to clear spam activity?

Description : Is there a way to clear spam activity?

Last Answer : Have you seen this question? https://www.fluther.com/214886/why-do-i-have-so-many-new-notifications-today/

Does flagging spam help the moderator to get rid of it faster?

Description : Does flagging spam help the moderator to get rid of it faster?

Last Answer : It helps bring it to our attention, but you don’t need to flag every answer. We’ll check out someone’s entire posting history if they are flagged for spam. I will mention that lurving spammers doesn’t help, but a lot of people do it anyway.

Does answering spam and telemarketer calls help keep and create jobs?

Description : Does answering spam and telemarketer calls help keep and create jobs?

Last Answer : Yes and no. Yes, the callers get paid, something close to minimum wage. In some cases that plus some commission for the sales that they make. But.. It has large employee turnover – read this because it’s frustrating and hard to be successful.

Mods, would you please give some guidance on flagging spam posts, versus writing cutesy quasi-answers to them?

Description : Mods, would you please give some guidance on flagging spam posts, versus writing cutesy quasi-answers to them?

Last Answer : [Mod says] There used to be a policy that required us to remove all posts on a spam thread, even comments like Flagged . We don't do that anymore, so those posts don't bother us, unless ... of posting a quick Flagged afterwards. That way of interacting with spam threads is the most mod-friendly.

Why is there so much spam today, Fluther is overrun with spam?

Description : Why is there so much spam today, Fluther is overrun with spam?

Last Answer : I took a break from Fluther. I’m one of those who flags spam at night and afternoon. I was busy today .

Why does the phone make that little poot sound when a spam caller connects?

Description : Why does the phone make that little poot sound when a spam caller connects?

Last Answer : My understanding is that they are making several calls at once electronically and that the sound and delay are showing them that someone has answered.

If a question is from a new user and the first answer is spam, don't you suspect that the OP is spam?

Description : If a question is from a new user and the first answer is spam, don't you suspect that the OP is spam?

Last Answer : But of course.

Why is it a very bad idea to interact with spam questions, even harmlessly?

Description : Why is it a very bad idea to interact with spam questions, even harmlessly?

Last Answer : [Mod Says] There's no problem with harmlessly interacting with spam questions-just be sure it's actually spam! We used to have a big problem with jellies jumping the gun and leveling accusations ... problem with multiple flags. But a lot of jellies seem to appreciate the time it saves them.