How mail content gets changed in between

The mysterious world of email content changes!

There are several reasons why email content might get changed in between sending and receiving. Here are some possible explanations:

  1. Email servers and gateways: When you send an email, it passes through multiple servers and gateways before reaching the recipient's inbox. Each server or gateway may modify the email content, such as:
    • Removing or adding headers (e.g., subject lines, sender information).
    • Encoding or decoding special characters.
    • Applying spam filters or virus scans.
  2. Email clients and software: The email client or software used to send and receive emails can also modify the content. For example:
    • Some email clients may automatically add or remove formatting, such as font styles or sizes.
    • Spam filters or antivirus software may modify or remove suspicious content.
  3. Network infrastructure: The network infrastructure used to transmit the email can also affect the content. For instance:
    • Network congestion or packet loss can cause data corruption or modification.
    • Firewalls or proxy servers may modify or block certain types of content.
  4. Recipient's email server: The recipient's email server may also modify the email content, such as:
    • Applying spam filters or virus scans.
    • Removing or encoding special characters.
    • Modifying the email's headers or metadata.
  5. Email forwarding: If the email is forwarded to another address, the content may be modified or stripped during the forwarding process.
  6. Email archiving and storage: Some email archiving and storage solutions may modify the email content, such as:
    • Removing or compressing attachments.
    • Encoding or decoding special characters.
    • Applying metadata or tags to the email.

To minimize changes to email content, you can:

  1. Use a reliable email client or software.
  2. Use a secure email protocol, such as TLS (Transport Layer Security) or PGP (Pretty Good Privacy).
  3. Avoid using special characters or formatting that may be modified or removed.
  4. Use email archiving and storage solutions that preserve the original content.
  5. Verify the integrity of the email content by checking the email headers and metadata.

Keep in mind that email content changes are often minor and intended to improve the email's delivery or security. However, if you're concerned about the integrity of your email content, it's essential to understand the email transmission process and take steps to minimize changes.