Description: Malicious email refers to messages that contain malware or are designed to deceive the recipient in order to obtain confidential information, such as passwords or banking data. This type of email may include links to fraudulent websites, infected attachments, or social engineering techniques aimed at manipulating the user. Malicious emails are one of the most common forms of cyberattacks, as they exploit the trust users have in email communication. Often, these messages impersonate legitimate communications from well-known companies, financial institutions, or even personal contacts, increasing the likelihood that the recipient will fall into the trap. Detecting and preventing malicious emails is crucial for cybersecurity, and various tools and utilities are available to analyze and mitigate these risks, allowing security professionals to assess the effectiveness of implemented protective measures.
History: Malicious email began to emerge in the 1990s, coinciding with the rise of the Internet and email as a means of communication. One of the first notable examples was ‘Mafiaboy’, a denial-of-service attack that spread through emails. As technology advanced, so did the techniques used by cybercriminals, leading to more sophisticated attacks such as phishing and spear phishing. In 2004, the term ‘spam’ became popular, along with the proliferation of unsolicited emails containing malware. Since then, malicious email has evolved, adapting to new technologies and communication methods, becoming one of the main threats in the field of cybersecurity.
Uses: Malicious emails are primarily used to carry out fraud, identity theft, and malware distribution. Cybercriminals employ these tactics to deceive users and gain access to sensitive information, such as login credentials, financial data, or personal information. Additionally, they can be used to propagate viruses and ransomware, affecting both individuals and organizations. Companies often implement security measures to detect and block these emails, but attackers continue to innovate their methods to evade these defenses.
Examples: An example of a malicious email is a phishing attack that impersonates a message from a bank, asking the user to update their account information through a link that leads to a fake website. Another case is the sending of an attachment that, when opened, installs ransomware on the user’s system, locking access to their files until a ransom is paid. These examples illustrate how malicious emails can have devastating consequences for users and organizations.
