A vast majority of people use email to communicate. However, it’s not always the best choice when it comes to send sensitive documents. Cyber-attacks and data breaches are increasing. It is important to understand how to send sensitive information safely via email.
In most instances it’s not a wise idea email for exchanging confidential documents to send confidential information in an unencrypted email message or as an attachment. This includes personal information like social security numbers, passport details, bank account details and business confidential documents. If you are required to send confidential information via email, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself and the recipient.
A disclaimer is a way to warn recipients about risks. These disclaimers are not legally binding and serve only to make clear that the email is confidential.
You can also use an encryption service for emails. This is more efficient and requires you and your recipient to have systems that allow this (e.g. S/MIME or PGP). You can also use software to compress files before sending emails. This can reduce the size of the file and make it more difficult for hackers to intercept your communications. You can also protect the document with passwords. the document to ensure it is impossible to open.
By setting a time limit you can ensure that only the intended recipient has access to the document for a specific period of time. By enabling two-factor authentication in your email system will increase security for business emails.