what information is contained in the email header?

Threat Thursday

Have you ever wondered where an email really comes from? Many of us receive emails every day, but not all are what they seem. Sometimes, cybercriminals disguise their messages to trick you. That’s where a header analyzer comes in!

Email headers contain important information about the sender, the route the email took, and whether it’s genuine. To use a header analyzer, you first need to locate your email’s header.

This can usually be found in the email settings or options menu on your email client.  Depending on the version of your email program, obtaining the header information may be slightly different from the method described.  In Outlook.com, go to your inbox. Single Right click on the email you wish to obtain the header from, Click View then View Message details.  You should now see a popup window with the header information.  Highlight all the text and copy this to your clipboard. 

Once you’ve copied the header, paste it into a header analyzer tool online. The tool examines the data and reveals the origin, helping you spot any suspicious activity.

While using a header analyzer, look out for these key indicators: check the ‘From’ address; if it doesn’t match the company’s official domain, it could be a scam. Pay attention to the ‘Received’ section, which shows the path the email took—if it originates from a suspicious location, it’s best to delete it.

To protect yourself, stay alert and think critically about unexpected emails. Always verify messages from unknown senders, especially if they ask for personal information. Be cautious and use a trusted header analyzer to ensure your safety online.

Thanks for your time and stay safe online.
Mark from IT Lifeline. Charting a Course for IT Success

If you are currently dealing with a cyber security issue. Stop And Think! Disengage with any potential scammer and reach out to a trusted partner. Head over to our website. https://itlifeline.co.uk/panic-button/

Scroll to Top