How do I know if an email is safe to open?
Opening an email is generally safe — the danger is in clicking links or attachments inside it. Before clicking anything, check who actually sent it. Look at the full email address (not just the name), and hover over any link to see where it really goes. Scam emails often create urgency — 'Your account will be closed!' or 'You have won a prize!' Real organisations never ask you to enter your password by clicking a link in an email. If you are not expecting an attachment, do not open it. When in doubt, delete the email and contact the sender directly by phone or by typing their website address yourself.
What to do
- Check the sender's full email address — not just the display name.
- Look for urgency or threats — 'Act now!' and 'Your account is at risk!' are red flags.
- Hover over any link before clicking to see the real destination URL.
- Never enter your password after clicking a link in an email.
- Do not open attachments you were not expecting.
- If unsure, delete it and contact the company directly by typing their address yourself.
The 3-Second Rule
Pause 3 seconds before clicking any link in an email. Ask: was I expecting this? Does the sender address match?
Important Warning
Clicking a link in a phishing email can install harmful software or steal your passwords — even on an iPad. The safest habit is to type website addresses yourself.