Can You Get Hacked by Opening Email

How possible is it to hack you if you just open email

In the past, attackers have used tracking pixels or hidden scripts to gather your data and exploit software flaws when you open emails.

But these days, just opening an email isn’t enough to get you hacked. Modern email apps like Gmail or Apple Mail block dangerous content by default, including auto-running scripts and remote images.

So, can you get hacked by opening an email? Probably not. But you can get hacked by clicking on a link inside the email. And if you’ve already clicked a malicious link, you should scan your device for malicious software.

Here’s how to scan your Android with Clario Anti Spy:

1. Open Clario Anti Spy and create an account.
2. Press Scan beneath Spyware scan and follow the instructions to remove suspicious apps.

Most dangerous email attachments and how they work

Email attachments are one of the most common ways hackers deliver malware. Some files run code the moment you open them, while others trick you into enabling dangerous features.

The most common threats include executable files, Office docs with macros, malicious PDFs, and compressed folders hiding malware. Hackers also use file masking tricks to disguise dangerous files as harmless.

Here’s how you can be hacked by clicking on an email attachment and what to look out for:

1. Executable files (.exe, .bat, .js)

Executable files run code the moment you open them. Hackers often email them as something harmless, like “Invoice_4.exe.” It looks like a regular invoice, but that “.exe” means it could install spyware, a keylogger, or give someone remote access to your device.

2. Microsoft Office documents with macros

Hackers can hide malware inside Word or Excel files with macros, which are small scripts that run when you enable editing. You might get a file like “Payment_Details.xls” with a message saying, “Enable content to view.” When that happens, the macro runs silently and installs malware.

3. PDF files with embedded scripts

Similarly, hackers can hide malicious scripts inside PDFs. These files don’t look suspicious, but opening them in an outdated reader can trigger hidden code. Some scripts redirect you to fake login pages; others install spyware in the background.

4. ZIP, RAR, ISO, IMG, and other compressed formats

These compressed formats are special file types that “bundle” other files together in a folder. Hackers often use them to hide harmful programs since they reduce the size of the download. But when you extract what’s in the folder, hidden malicious programs might install on your device.

5. File extension masking and spoofing tricks

Hackers can change the file type or use fake icons to make something dangerous look like a harmless file. You often won’t see the full file extension on your phone or computer, so it’s easy to mistake a harmful file for something safe. If anything about the attachment feels off, especially if it came out of nowhere, don’t open it.

How to safely handle suspicious emails

It’s important to be cautious when dealing with strange emails. If you don’t recognize the sender, or the message seems pushy, urgent, or too good to be true, take your time and double-check that it’s legitimate.

Here’s how to check a suspicious email without exposing yourself to risks:

1. Use preview mode: If your email app allows it, read the message without opening it. This will prevent the app from sending risky email content.
2. Turn off automatic image loading: Some emails include hidden tracking pixels that tell the sender you’ve opened an email. Disabling images prevents this.
3. Don’t click links or download attachments: Even if they look normal—avoid sent links unless you’re absolutely certain the email is safe.
4. Never reply or enter personal information: Legitimate companies won’t ask for information over email. If you see requests like this, it’s probably a scammer.

If the message is unexpected, urgent, or full of typos, you’re better off deleting it without opening anything.

How to avoid getting hacked through email

Avoiding email hacks requires good cybersecurity habits. You need to know what to look for, how to double-check email content, and what to do if your email is hacked. Keeping your software up to date and knowing how to use scanning tools will make sure your emails are secure.

Here are seven ways to avoid getting infected through email:

1. Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments

Avoid clicking links unless you're sure they’re safe. Before opening any link, hover over it to preview the destination URL. On mobile, copy and paste the link into a scanner like Google Safe Browsing.

Watch out for these warning signs:

• Bad spelling in the text (e.g., paypa1.com instead of paypal.com)
• Unfamiliar subdomains (e.g., login.bank.example.ru)
• URL shorteners that hide the true destination

Scammers have impersonated the U.S. Postal Service with emails claiming, “Package delivery failed—click here to reschedule.” The link looked legitimate but led to a fake USPS login page designed to steal credentials.

2. Verify sender’s address and email content

Scammers disguise malicious emails to look like they're from people you trust. Always check the full source of the email address, not just the display name.

The sender's name might say “Amazon Support,” but the actual email address could be support@amazon-secure-help.com.

Look out for these signs:

• Grammar and spelling errors in the domain
• Generic greetings like “Dear customer” instead of your name
• Requests for personal or financial information

If anything contained in the sender’s address or tone feels off, don’t engage. When in doubt, contact the company directly.

3. Learn to spot common phishing tactics

Phishing emails trick you into handing over personal info, downloading malware, or clicking fake links. Spammers will impersonate well-known brands or banks and use fear or urgency to pressure you into acting without thinking.

In addition to malicious attachments and spoofed sender addresses, look out for:

• Fake login pages: You get an email with a link to “verify” your account, but it leads to a site that looks real but steals your username and password.
• Urgent security alerts: A warning says your account has been compromised or will be locked unless you act fast. The goal is to cause you to panic and click.
• Too-good-to-be-true offers: You’re promised a refund or prize for filling out a form, but it steals your personal info instead.

4. Install and regularly update antivirus software

Antivirus software catches threats before they manage to harm your device. It’s one of the best ways to secure your email account from hackers.

It’ll scan any files you receive via email, blocking any malware it detects before it’s too late. This is especially important if you accidentally open a bad attachment or click a spear phishing link—like spear phishing.

For spyware specifically, Clario Anti Spy detects hidden tracking apps, keyloggers, and surveillance software. Use the Spyware Scan on Android or the Hidden apps scan on iOS to check your device, just in case.

5. Be cautious with unknown attachments, even from known contacts

If a hacker compromises a friend’s email, attackers can send malware from their inbox. One common trick is to reply to an existing thread with a vague line like, “Please see attached” and a file that looks work-related.

Instead of opening it, check the tone and context: Does the message sound like them? Was there any reason for them to send a file? If not, call or message them directly. Don’t rely on the email alone to confirm it’s real.

6. Update your PDF reader and email client

Outdated software is a common target for cyber attackers. Old PDF readers and email apps will have security flaws that hackers can exploit with malicious files. To reduce the risk, turn on automatic updates and check for new versions regularly.

7. Enable email scanning tools or security filters

Built-in security filters catch threats before they reach your inbox. The larger email services like Gmail or Outlook automatically scan messages for phishing links and known malicious software. Make sure to turn these features on. And, for stronger protection, consider adding a dedicated email security tool that flags high-risk content in real time.

If you’re still unsure, find out—can you get a virus from opening an email on Gmail?

Conclusion

Opening an email probably won’t expose you to dangers, but clicking what’s inside can. Spot the warning signs, question unexpected email attachments, and keep your apps up-to-date to protect yourself from hackers.

Think your device might already be compromised? Run a scan with Spyware Scan on Android or Hidden apps scan on iOS to uncover threats fast.