How to block Spam and Phishing emails on Gmail

In today’s digital age, email is an essential part of our lives. However, with the convenience of email also comes the problem of spam messages cluttering our inbox. Spam messages can be frustrating, time-consuming, and potentially harmful if they contain phishing or malware links. Luckily, Google’s email service, Gmail, offers various tools and features to help users block spam messages. In this article, we will discuss some of the ways to block spam emails on Gmail.

1. Use the Block and Report Spam Feature

Gmail offers a Block and Report Spam feature that allows you to block any unwanted email address and report it as spam. When you use this feature, the blocked email address will be automatically sent to the spam folder, and you will no longer receive any messages from that address. Here’s how to use this feature:

• Open the email from the sender you want to block.
• Click on the three dots in the top right corner of the email.
• Click on “Block [sender’s name].”
• Click on “Block” to confirm the action.
  

2. Use Filters

Gmail’s filters allow you to automatically send messages from specific senders to the spam folder. Here’s how to set up a filter:

• Open Gmail and click on the gear icon in the top right corner.
• Select “See All Settings.”
• Click on the “Filters and Blocked Addresses” tab.
  

Click on “Create a new filter.”

In the “From” field, enter the email address of the sender you want to block.

Click on “Create filter.”

Select “Delete it” and “Also apply filter to matching conversations.”

Click on “Create filter.”

3. Unsubscribe from Newsletters and Promotions

Another common source of spam emails is newsletters and promotions from websites and online stores. You can unsubscribe from these emails to prevent them from cluttering your inbox. Most promotional emails contain an “Unsubscribe” link at the bottom of the email. Click on the link, and you will be taken to the unsubscribe page, where you can confirm your decision to unsubscribe.

4. Use the Report Phishing Feature

Phishing emails are designed to trick you into providing personal information, such as login credentials or credit card details. These emails can be dangerous and should be reported immediately. Gmail offers a Report Phishing feature that allows you to report phishing emails to Google. Here’s how to use this feature:

• Open the email you suspect is a phishing attempt.
• Click on the three dots in the top right corner of the email.
  

Click on “Report phishing.”

Follow the prompts to report the email.

In conclusion, spam emails can be a nuisance, but with the right tools and features, you can effectively block them on Gmail. Use the Block and Report Spam feature, set up filters, unsubscribe from newsletters and promotions, report phishing attempts, and enable the spam filter to keep your inbox clean and clutter-free. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a more pleasant email experience, save time, and protect your personal information.