Anti-spam:

Techniques for the end user

Most users of email will have experienced spam, or unsolicited email. Whilst spam filtering software is proving increasing effective, and most email services now provide a filter as standard, filters are not a sure fire way to avoid spam. Below are a few techniques a user can adopt to lessen the likelihood of receiving email spam.

Caution

Treat your email address just like your mobile phone number. The less people you share it amongst, the less likely it will make it's way onto a spam list. Be sure to email people who will not forward your message without your express permission. Forwarding is one way an unscrupulous individual may gain access to their address.

Post Anonymously

Unless it's absolutely necessary, never post your email address on a website, message board, chat room, usenet, instant messaging service etc. If you do, encode your address so it's invalid, such as mike@you.com, turn into miKE@You.com. One of the key way spammers get your email address is from harvesting websites etc.

Use a Mule account

For registering on websites and using contact forms, create a new email address at a free webmail service such as gmail. Not all web services are secure and spammer can access their contact lists. A mule account will stop access to your real address.

Never respond

Spammers will never or very rarely respond to a reply to their spam. Therefore your request for 'no more spam' will be a wasted effort and may result in flagging your address up as active.