Keys to PC Security :: Email Privacy Issues
Email Privacy Issues:
Issues Surrounding Privacy and Your Email
Because every email message runs through a series of routers, email servers and networks as it makes its way from you to the recipient, there are a number of serious email privacy issues. Like a posted letter, an email passes through many digital hands before finally reaching its final destination. So, if you think your email is secure, read on for examples of how your private emails may not be as confidential as you think.
Email Server Backups and Privacy
Most ISP's (Internet Service Providers) and e-mail servers conduct regular backups of their mail servers. Because most emails are sent in plain text format, not as data encrypted files, those plain text emails that you may have deleted off your own computer or mail account, could still wind up sitting on a number of mail servers for years.
Commercial Advertising and Privacy
A number of online email providers, like Hotmail (http://hotmail.com), Gmail (http://gmail.com) or Yahoo!Mail (http://yahoo.com) serve advertisements based on the text content of your emails. For example, let's say your friend sends you an email about an upcoming vacation in Mexico – you'll notice that the majority of your ads are now related to Mexican vacations and airfare.
This process is automated and so while there aren't individuals reading your emails and dictating which ads you'll see, it still tells you that every email is now being scanned and “read.” This access has email privacy issues advocates very concerned.
Basic Forwarding of Email and Privacy
Before you fire off that angry letter, embarrassing story or compromising photograph, remember how easy it is to forward an email message. Confidential work information, your own contact information or private correspondence can be forwarded simply and quickly.
So, instead of sending off an email with sensitive business or trade information, why not data encrypt the message or call your co-worker or business associate on the phone to discuss it?
Company or Work Email and Privacy
In most countries, any emails that are sent using company computers or company email servers are considered property of that company and therefore accessible by your managers, bosses or IT technicians. This can create serious email privacy issues if the employee is not aware of these laws or policies. As a general rule, you should have no expectation of privacy when it comes to email sent at or through work.
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PC-Security-Keys.com :: Email Privacy Issues