Spam

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Spam refers to any kind of unwanted and unsolicited digital communication. It is sent out in bulk, usually via email, but can also be distributed via text messages, telephone calls or social media.

Types of Spam

Spammers use various forms of communication to send their messages. They will try to sell you something or take same sort of action that you wouldn’t normally do. They may also try to trick you into divulging your personal information or scare you into thinking that you need to pay to get out of some sort of trouble.

Where Does the Term “Spam” Come From?

The term “spam” isn’t short for anything and doesn’t stand for anything. It comes from a Monty Python sketch where there are many mentions of the meat product Spam.

Here Are Some of the Types of Spam You Will Come Across:-

Phishing Emails

Cyber criminals use phishing emails to “hook” their victims. The emails try to trick you into giving them sensitive information like your website login credentials or credit card information.

Email Spoofing

Spoofed emails appear to come from a legitimate sender and normally ask you take some sort of action like:-

  • Pay an outstanding invoice
  • Reset your password or verify your account
  • Verify a purchase you didn’t make
  • Update billing information

Tech Support Scams

Tech support scams will tell you that you have a technical problem and that you should contact tech support by calling a phone number or clicking a link in the message. These spam messages also usually appear to come from large, legitimate companies.

Advance Fee Scams

This type of spam promises a financial reward if you provide a cash advance. The sender normally tells you that the cash advance is some sort of processing fee.

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