EMAIL GLOSSARY

What is DDOS (in email)?

DDoS stands for Distributed Denial of Service, which is a type of cyber attack that aims to disrupt the normal functioning of a targeted computer system or network. In the context of email, a DDoS attack can be used to overwhelm the email server with a massive influx of traffic, causing it to crash or become unavailable.

In a DDoS email attack, the attacker typically uses a large network of computers, known as a botnet, to send a massive amount of email traffic to the targeted email server, making it difficult for legitimate users to access their email accounts or send and receive emails. The attacker may also use other tactics, such as spoofing or phishing, to trick the email server or its users into allowing the attack traffic to pass through undetected.

DDoS email attacks can have serious consequences for businesses and individuals, including loss of productivity, reputation damage, and financial losses. To prevent or mitigate the impact of DDoS email attacks, email service providers and businesses should implement measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and traffic monitoring tools to detect and block suspicious traffic. They should also have a plan in place to quickly respond to and recover from a DDoS attack if it occurs.