The lack of adequate email security measures can result in unauthorized access of resources, intrusion of viruses, theft of data, or destruction of technology. A personal email account requires a password, that permits only the owner of the account to gain access.

In terms of the personal use of email, an unauthorized user could be privy to your confidential information. An unauthorized user could send abusive or inappropriate emails that appear to have been drafted by you. For reasons of confidentiality and integrity, it is extremely important that you do not share your email password with others.

The application of security issues is broader for those who intend to pursue a career in business. Fluent email skills are necessary in the business world. As an employee in a business, you not only protect your own best interest, but that of your employer as well, by taking appropriate email security measures. In the event that an unauthorized individual accessed your email account, your files could be altered, rendering them useless or worse yet, dangerous. Trade secrets, financial data, and other information should be protected, and you, as an agent of the business, are responsible for maintaining that confidentiality.

A virus sent by email will not affect your system unless you download the document. You may read the email without mishap, but never download an attachment unless you recognize the identity of the sender.

Spam (or junk email) can be a problem if not avoided. In the event that your email address has been has been acquired by unscrupulous Spam distributors, there are some things you can do to remedy the headache.

• By using the "Block Sender" option in your email menu, future messages will go directly to your "Trash" instead of your "In-Box".
• If Spam continues to be a problem, contact your email provider for assistance.

An issue that is closely related to email etiquette is the ability of business management to access your email account at your workplace. New software can enable companies to covertly monitor and record every keystroke made by an employee, regardless of whether or not the data is saved. Employees should know the expectations and limitations of the use of email in the workplace. Workers have been terminated due to the use of the office email for personal or inappropriate purposes. There have been some concerns about the matter of management intruding on a workers account; however, while in the employ of a business, your time and energy should be directed toward your work.