How to block exe file in mail

Blocking executable files (EXE) in email can be done through various methods, depending on your email client, server, or organization's security policies. Here are some common ways to block EXE files in email:

Email Client Settings:

  1. Microsoft Outlook:
    • Go to File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings > Attachment Handling.
    • Uncheck the box next to "Trust all installed add-ons and templates."
    • Set the "Attachment blocking" option to "Block all attachments" or "Block attachments with executable file extensions" (e.g.,.exe,.dll,.msi).
  2. Mozilla Thunderbird:
    • Go to Tools > Account Settings > Server Settings > Security.
    • Check the box next to "Block executable attachments."

Email Server Settings:

  1. Postfix (Linux):
    • Edit the /etc/postfix/main.cf file and add the following line: milter_protocol = d
    • Restart the Postfix service.
  2. Microsoft Exchange Server:
    • Go to the Exchange Management Console > Organization Configuration > Hub Transport > Anti-Spam > Attachment Filtering.
    • Set the "Attachment filtering" option to "Block executable attachments."

Third-Party Solutions:

  1. SpamAssassin:
    • Install SpamAssassin on your email server or client.
    • Configure SpamAssassin to block executable attachments by adding the following line to your spamassassin.conf file: score EXE_FILE 5
  2. ClamAV:
    • Install ClamAV on your email server or client.
    • Configure ClamAV to scan for executable attachments by adding the following line to your clamd.conf file: ScanPE = yes

Additional Tips:

  1. Use a secure email gateway: Consider using a secure email gateway like Proofpoint, Symantec, or Barracuda to block executable attachments at the gateway level.
  2. Configure your email client to warn or block attachments: Even if you can't completely block EXE files, you can configure your email client to warn you or block attachments that contain executable files.
  3. Keep your email client and server software up to date: Regularly update your email client and server software to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.

Remember that blocking executable files in email is just one part of a comprehensive email security strategy. It's essential to combine this with other security measures, such as spam filtering, virus scanning, and user education, to protect your organization from email-borne threats.