Spam vs junk mail

The age-old debate!

Spam and junk mail are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two.

Spam:

Spam refers specifically to unsolicited commercial electronic messages, such as emails, texts, or instant messages, that are sent in bulk to a large number of recipients. The term "spam" originated from a Monty Python sketch in which a group of Vikings sang a song with the refrain "Spam, spam, spam, spam," and the term has since been adopted to describe unwanted, repetitive, and often annoying messages.

Spam can take many forms, including:

• Phishing emails that try to trick you into revealing sensitive information
• Unsolicited sales pitches or advertisements
• Chain letters or pyramid schemes
• Viruses or malware-laden emails

Junk Mail:

Junk mail, on the other hand, refers to unsolicited paper mail, such as letters, catalogs, or flyers, that are sent to a large number of recipients without their consent. Junk mail can include:

• Unwanted advertisements or promotional materials
• Credit card offers or solicitations
• Insurance or investment pitches
• Catalogs or brochures for products or services you don't need or want

Key differences:

• Spam is electronic, while junk mail is physical.
• Spam is often more targeted and personalized, while junk mail is often more general and mass-produced.
• Spam is often more likely to be malicious or fraudulent, while junk mail is usually just annoying or wasteful.

How to deal with spam and junk mail:

• Be cautious when opening emails or attachments from unknown senders.
• Use strong antivirus software and a reputable email provider to help filter out spam.
• Report spam emails to your email provider or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
• Opt-out of paper junk mail by registering with the Direct Marketing Association's Mail Preference Service.
• Consider using a paperless billing or subscription service to reduce your physical mail.

Remember, it's always a good idea to be vigilant and take steps to protect yourself from unwanted messages and solicitations!