According to recent studies, 85% of all emails are spam. You might find this hard to believe, but when you think about what goes into your inbox and what already gets filtered to your spam, they aren't always the emails you want to see.
Spam is an annoying part of email life. But, thankfully, you don't have to put up with it. With the right email filter, you can be in full control of what emails you get.
For more information on how a spam filter can make your email experience better, take a look at the list below.
First, Find the Right Spam Filter For Your Email Needs
Picking the perfect spam filter depends on what you want for your email. Most emails have a type of spam filter built into them. That's why you have a spam folder already filled to the brim with unwanted emails.
However, a lot of spam manages to slip by your email's built-in spam filter right to your inbox. Sometimes this may be because a website you signed up for has given your email to a third-party website. Your email doesn't filter these because it thinks these sites are supposed to have your email address.
The result is that you end up with a muddled-up inbox folder that combines your important emails with those that you don't want.
If this is the case, then spam filtering software may be exactly what you need. This can help to combat spam and put you back in control of your email.
What Spam Filtering Software Should I Use?
There is a wide range of spam filtering software available for you to choose from. Some are web-based, and some require you to download them to your computer or laptop. However, many of them provide what is considered the same kind of service.
There are two factors that might influence which spam filter you go with. The first is the price of the software. The second is how easy it is to use.
Some of the downloadable software may offer you a subscription package. This way, you can spread the cost and get the latest updates as soon as they come through.
A lot of spam filters are actually free to use and download. They often offer the same services as paid options, so they're worth considering for all your spam filtering needs.
The spam filter you choose shouldn't be too complicated. The best ones will go about their job of keeping your emails in the right place. Most run in the background, so you'll barely notice it's there.
How To Set Up a Spam Filter
After you've chosen the best spam filter for your email, you'll need to set it up. The steps to do this might change slightly depending on what spam filter you use. But, generally, they are simple and efficient to use.
Within your email, head to the settings page. Depending on the email server you use, you'll usually see an option for "filters," "blockers," or "Spam options."
Your email will be able to tell you how to set your particular spam filter up to work best for you. Simply follow the instructions you see there.
Spam email filtering eliminates the need for you to go through your inbox to keep it clear and organized. That's why those that make spam filtering systems have made them accessible and easy to use.
What Kinds of Spam Filters Are There?
There are several different types of spam filters that target different types of emails. They can be great for a variety of different needs. If you wish to use more than one, you'll generally be able to set this up in your email.
Content Filters
These filters work to decipher the contents of an email to ensure it's one you want to see.
The content from spam emails can be fairly repetitive, and this makes it easier to catch those annoying emails before they become a problem.
Generally, content filters look at the file types that have been attached plus any images within the email body.
Header Filters
These kinds of spam filters focus closely on an email's header. Which means they check to see where an email address has originated from, and they make sure it's a safe and secure source.
If it's not a source recognized by your email filter, it will be sent straight to the spam folder. Header filters are great at recognizing suspicious addresses and headers that just don't seem right.
Language Filters
Language filters do exactly what they sound like. They know what language you have set your email preferences to, and they block emails that don't communicate in your chosen language.
You can edit these preferences as you like through your email settings. If receiving emails in a language that you don't usually communicate in is part of your life, then do keep an eye on your spam folder just in case.
Rule Filters
Rule-based filters offer you the most control over your emails. You can set up specific rules surrounding what emails you want to see and what you don't.
If an email goes against a particular rule, it's sent straight to your spam folder. This can help field all those annoying emails you just don't have time to deal with.
Blocklist Filters
Spam emails or contacts that send spam emails are often added to a list called a Blocklist. This keeps track of all the different types of spammers around and can be updated when new ones come on the scene.
Sometimes, spam emails can slip through a Blocklist filter because the email domain has been altered. However, these emails are usually added back to the blocklist pretty quickly.
How Does a Spam Filter Know the Difference Between Emails I want and Spam?
Emails are made up of several different parts. These include the sender details, the header, the subject line, and the body of the email. Some will also include attachments, such as documents or images.
A spam filter can detect when these areas of an email just don't seem right. It will look at every part of an email to decide if it could be spam or not.
What if My Spam Filter Starts Filtering the Wrong Emails?
Spam filters aren't perfect. Sometimes you'll check a spam filter for a long-awaited email and find it sitting right at the top.
You can always edit the settings and rules your spam filter adheres to. Marking particular emails as "not spam" if they do end up in your spam folder will help the filter to learn what emails you want to see.
The same can be said if spam continues to find its way into your inbox. Simply hit the "mark as spam" button to ensure those kinds of emails don't fill up your inbox any longer.
If you've just recently set up a new spam filter, it's always best to keep an eye on your spam folder at the beginning. Your filter will be using a set of rules to decide what's spam and what isn't, so if it gets it wrong, make sure you put it on the right course.
What's the Best Spam Filter to Use?
This comes down to what you're looking for your spam filter to do. Most people just want a basic filterthat gets rid of emails with potential viruses or annoying marketing information attached.
However, some people want their email to be completely spam-free. This is best for those using a work email who don't want to get distracted by potential spam. These people will benefit from a high-functioning spam filter software that lets them be in complete control of their email content.
Regardless of what email filtering service you choose to use, you'll notice the benefits straight away. Having to sift through a wedge of spam every morning when you open your emails is truly the worst way to begin your day.
With a spam email filter, you'll see just how quickly your emails can be tidied up to reflect your needs. And you are in full control of your email filter, so you can get the most out of it.
Keep Spam at Bay With an Accurate, Up-To-Date Spam Email Filter
An email filter will help organize your inbox and keep possible threats at bay. You'll find your inbox clearer and very relevant to your life with the right spam filter set up.
By following the guide above, you can pick the best spam filter to suit your needs. Whatever you want for your email account, there is a spam filter option to suit you.
To find out more about all things spam, email, and communications, check out this page. You'll find a range of options to suit your email needs and to keep spam at bay. Plus, you can get in touch with the expert team if you have any questions at all.
