How to read an email header to see where a message really came from
Email headers can reveal where a message really came from, helping you spot fake emails and phishing attempts. Here’s how to read them.
Email headers are like the address on a letter. They show the path an email took to reach you, including the real sender’s address. By reading these headers, you can spot fake emails and avoid scams. This guide explains how to find and understand them.
What are email headers?
Email headers are the part of an email message that contains information about its journey. They include details like the sender’s email address, the email server it passed through, and the date it was sent. Most email clients hide these by default, but you can view them to check for signs of tampering.
How to view email headers
The method to view headers depends on your email client. Here are a few common ways:
- Outlook: Open the email, click the "File" tab, then "Properties," and look for the "Internet Headers" section.
- Gmail: Open the email, click the three dots in the top right, select "Show original," and scroll to the top.
- Apple Mail: Right-click the email, choose "Show Original," and look for the "Received" lines.
Once you’ve viewed the headers, look for the "From" and "Received" fields to trace the email’s path.
What to look for in the headers
The "From" field is the most important part, but it can be faked. Look for the "Received" lines, which show the email’s journey. Each line starts with "Received:" and includes the server it passed through, the date, and the IP address.
- Check the "From" field: This should match the sender’s real email address. If it doesn’t, it might be a fake.
- Look for "Received" lines: These show the email’s path. A legitimate email will have multiple "Received" lines, each showing a different server.
- Find the IP address: The email should include the IP address of the server that sent the message. This can help you verify the sender’s location.
What to do if the headers don’t match
If the headers don’t match the sender’s claimed email address, it’s likely a phishing attempt. Scammers often use fake headers to make their emails look legitimate. In this case, don’t reply to the email and report it to your email provider.
Why this matters for email security
Understanding email headers helps you spot fake emails and protect your business from phishing. It’s a simple but powerful tool that can save you from falling for scams. By learning how to read headers, you can take control of your email security.
When to use this method
Use this method whenever you receive an unexpected email, especially if it asks for sensitive information or urges you to take action. Checking headers is a quick way to verify the email’s authenticity and avoid falling for scams.
By learning how to read email headers, you can improve your email security and protect your business from phishing and other threats.