Definition
Email attachment safety addresses the risks and handling of files attached to email. Attachments are a leading vector for malware and phishing, so recipients, filters and senders all treat executable and unexpected files cautiously.
For marketers, attachment safety matters on two sides: avoid sending files that trigger filters or look suspicious, and protect recipients by following safe practices. Prefer linking to trusted hosted files over attachments where possible.
Best practices include avoiding executable attachment types, scanning files, bounding attachment sizes, linking to secure hosted versions, and educating recipients to expect them. This protects deliverability and reduces security risk.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Attachments are a common vector for malware and phishing, so unexpected or executable files are heavily filtered and treated with suspicion by both filters and users.
Prefer linking to secure hosted files rather than attaching where possible. If you must attach, use safe types, scan them, and make recipients expect the file.
Avoid executable file types, scan attachments, keep sizes small, link to trusted hosted versions, and only send files recipients are actually expecting.