Dealing With Spam

Firstly let's point out upfront that getting rid of 100% of spam is almost impossible, but all users should at least attempt to block spam. Spam is annoying and can be offensive and lately alot more spam is phishing. Phishing is a type of spam or web site that attempts to get users to hand over their banking details or other personal information, yet another reason for wanting to filter spam.

Most spam filters work by picking up keywords or message structure, the spam filter gives emails a score based on its analysis of the message. Users can then adjust the spam filter so that messages with a certain score or higher are filtered out.

There are several options available to help you to deal with spam:
1. Contact your ISP, they may have a spam filter you can use. In many cases this doesn't require you to install or configure anything.
2. Check your email program. Outlook has a built in Junk filter, you can adjust this filter to eliminate more spam.
3. Check your anti-virus software, some software includes a spam filter or has an optional spam filter add-on.

You can also report the spam to The Australian Communications and Media Authority who will use it as evidence in an attempt to prosecute the spammer. The reporting is as easy as clicking a button, all you need to do is download a plug-in for Outlook or Outlook Express from the ACMA website.