Why must you not send sensitive information via regular email?

Why must you not send sensitive information via regular email?

Regular email is still one of the most widely used methods of communication, but few people are aware of the security risks it involves. When it comes to sending sensitive information, regular email is not a secure option. In this article, we explain why—and how you can protect your communications.

What information should not be sent by email?

All personal, identifiable, or financially sensitive information should be kept out of regular email unless you are using a secure method of communication. Examples of sensitive information include:

• Personal identity codes, addresses, and health information
• Passwords and usernames
• Bank account and credit card information
• Internal confidential company documents
• Contracts and employee information

Rule of thumb: Would you send this information on a postcard or in a sealed envelope? If your answer is in a sealed envelope, you should use encrypted email.

Why is regular email not secure?

Risks of unencrypted email:

Regular email is often transmitted over the internet without encryption. This means that the contents of your message can be intercepted, read, and even modified before they reach the recipient.

Phishing attacks and email spoofing

Cybercriminals can easily spoof email addresses and send messages that appear to come from a trusted sender. Such messages may contain:

• Malicious links
• Attachments that install malware
• Fraudulent requests to disclose confidential information

The role of email service providers

Many free email services, such as Gmail, Yahoo, and Outlook, may analyse the content of your messages, for example to improve their services or for other purposes described in their terms of service. In addition, they do not provide automatic end-to-end encryption, which means messages may be more vulnerable to interception unless protected by other security measures.

The biggest email security risks

• ❌ Messages are not encrypted – they can be intercepted in transit.
• ❌ Email addresses are easy to spoof.
• ❌ Phishing attacks are common.
• ❌ Email service providers may analyse and use your data.
• ❌ Emails are often sent to the wrong recipient by mistake.

How can you protect your communications?

Always use an encrypted email service when sending sensitive or confidential information.

Luottoposti provides:

• Strong end-to-end encryption
• A Finnish service that does not analyse the content of your messages
• An easy and secure way to send and receive messages and attachments
• Electronic signature functionality

Summary

Email is a fast means of communication, but it does not provide sufficient security for handling sensitive information. Do not expose yourself or the recipient to unnecessary risks. Sensitive information belongs in an encrypted communication channel—not in regular email.

Do you need a secure way to communicate?

👉 Try Luottoposti and send your messages securely, domestically and easily.