Category: Uncategorized

• The OG Product Managers – Creating for the Whole World

  Have you ever paused to think about how many products humankind has created over the centuries? From the simplest tools to the most complex technologies, millions of products surround us. But here’s a thought. Not every product truly changed the way the world lives. Some inventions were confined to certain geographies, cultures, or industries. Yet, a few rare ones transcended every barrier, embraced by all, across countries, communities, and generations.

  These, I believe, are not just inventions. They are global products. And the people behind them, the true global product managers, shaped the course of humanity itself.

  Let me share A Few Inventions That Represent a Rare Category.

  The Wheel – The First Global Product

  We often overlook the wheel, which is found beneath our cars, bicycles, airplanes, and even the smallest toys. However, imagine our world without it. Every form of movement, from a farmer transporting harvests in a cart centuries ago to a rocket rolling out to the launchpad, starts with this fundamental invention. It’s not just a product; it’s a foundation. If there’s one creation that truly connects every culture and civilization, it’s the wheel, a quiet force that keeps the world moving, literally.

  Engines and Pumps – The Power to Move the World

  Since the discovery of motion through steam to the modern combustion engine that powers cars, trains, and ships, engines have become the heartbeat of progress. Even at home, a simple motor pump silently lifts water for us every day. Without engines, there would be no travel, no industrial revolution, and perhaps no modern world as we know it. They are the invisible muscles of human advancement.

  Flying Mechanisms – Beyond Earthly Limits  

  There’s something magical about flight. Every time I see a plane soaring above, it reminds me of a dream that once seemed impossible. Today, someone can have breakfast in Asia and dinner in North America. Rockets carry our satellites, which guide farmers, forecast the weather, and connect our phones. We even have rovers exploring Mars. The dream of flight, once a myth, has become one of humanity’s greatest realities, and it didn’t stop at the sky; it reached beyond it.

  X-Rays and Scanners – The Eyes of Modern Medicine

  Step into any hospital, and you’ll notice technology that allows us to look inside the human body without a single incision. From X-rays to CT scans, these machines have redefined medicine. They don’t just diagnose; they save lives every day. It’s hard to imagine healthcare without them. To me, this is one of the most life-affirming inventions ever created globally.

  Computers – The Brain That Never Sleeps

  When computers were first introduced, they filled entire rooms. Today, they fit in the palm of our hands. From business and education to art and agriculture, no area remains untouched by their influence. They’ve evolved into powerful tools capable of thinking, learning, and predicting. The journey from mechanical calculators to the era of artificial intelligence is nothing short of extraordinary, and we are right in the middle of that revolution.

  Telephones – The Voice That Connected the World  

  While wheels moved us physically, telephones have connected us emotionally. They have shrunk the world into something that fits in our hands. From rotary dials to smartphones, we’ve come a long way, yet the essence remains the same: connection. That first call bridging two distant voices sparked a chain of possibilities that continues to define our age of instant communication.

  Modern Marvels – Printers, Touchscreens, and the Internet  

  Today’s world has its own heroes, those who have made creativity shareable, knowledge limitless, and connections border-less. Printers, touch devices, and the internet empower everyone, from students to scientists. They’ve democratized access to information and transformed the globe into one giant community.

  The Real Global Product Managers

  When I reflect on these inventions, I realize that the true global product managers are the visionaries who created them. They didn’t just build products; they solved problems that belong to all of humanity. They didn’t focus on markets or segments; they thought about people. That, to me, is the essence of global product management: creating something so universal and timeless that the world cannot function without it.

  What other products do you think have changed the world for everyone? I would love to hear your thoughts. Perhaps we’ll uncover a few more unsung global product managers among us.

  Happy Reading!

  -He-

  November 16, 2025

  Creators Of Change, Global Products, history, Human Progress, OG Product Manager, Product Management, Products For Everyone, science, technology, Timeless Products, Universal Products

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• Earning vs Living: Finding Balance with Money

  Money is a Need – Definitely

  For every human in this world, money is an unavoidable necessity. No one can ignore or deny its importance. While money itself doesn’t guarantee happiness, it does ensure a secure and dignified life for you and your family.

  Education, healthcare, food, housing — almost every basic need demands money. In most countries, even providing your children with a decent education requires financial stability. In the end, a hard truth is this: even for a dignified farewell at the end of life, money is essential.

  Respect When You Have Money

  It’s not just about survival; money often decides the way the world treats you.

  • In airports, your travel class decides how you’re greeted.
  • In society, even your dress code can change the respect you receive.
  • In schools, childhood groups often form based on family status.

  This reality may sound harsh, but it’s visible everywhere. The world may not always respect values or character first; often, it respects wealth.

  The Race for Money – What Do We Lose?

  Most of us are caught in a never-ending race to earn money. In the process, we often sacrifice the very life we are trying to build.

  • Parents live away from their children just to provide them with a better future.
  • Husbands and wives stay apart in different cities or countries to save money.
  • Many migrate to developed nations, working tirelessly while missing precious family moments.

  Ironically, we are earning for our loved ones, but staying away from them in the process.

  Deciding Your Target – Comparison vs Self-Need

  Will people stop once they earn enough to live decently? The answer is usually no. Why? Because comparison creeps in.

  We measure ourselves against relatives, colleagues, neighbors, or friends. Suddenly, the target is no longer about fulfilling our needs; it’s about matching or beating someone else.

  –> The healthier approach:

  • Define your wish-list clearly.
  • Include your family’s dreams in it.
  • Celebrate every achievement, however small.

  Chasing comparisons leads to misery, but chasing your own goals brings unmatched joy.

  Satisfaction – A Moving Goalpost?

  Do we ever find true satisfaction after reaching our earning goals? For many, the answer is no.

  Two main reasons:

  1. Inflation – The cost of living keeps rising, so needs increase.
  2. Changing Targets – Our desires and expectations shift with time and surroundings.

  While inflation is real and can be managed with financial planning, the second reason is more dangerous. Constantly moving the goalpost steals peace of mind.

  When Do You Find Real Satisfaction?

  Happiness lies in mindset, not just money.

  • You’ll find joyful people across all income levels, lower-middle class, middle class, and the ultra-rich.
  • If you decide to earn only for your genuine needs and reach that point, no external factor can disturb your peace.
  • Comparison is the real thief of joy. Remove it, and you’ll discover contentment.

  Money is important, but maintaining balance is essential. Earn wisely, live meaningfully, and define your own satisfaction.

  Wishing you the best in achieving a balance between money, respect, and happiness.

  Happy Reading!

  -He-

  October 20, 2025

  Financial Happiness, happiness, Happiness Mindset, Importance of Money, Life Balance, life lessons, Living vs Earning, mental-health, money, Money and Life, Money and Relationships, Respect and Wealth

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• Urgent? Obfuscated? Too Easy? Your Email Might Be a Scam

  Most unwanted emails flooding our inboxes are sent in bulk. Scammers and fraudsters typically do not have the time or resources to send emails individually. Therefore, learning to differentiate between individual and bulk emails is essential in avoiding digital traps.

  How to Identify Bulk Emails

  When a sender knows only your email address and not your real name, they often use generic greetings like “Customer,” “User,” “Hi,” or “Hello.” Sometimes, they might even address you using the name portion of your email address. For example, if your email is *name123@gmail.com*, they might greet you with “Hi name123.” Emails like these can generally be ignored.

  Conversely, if an email addresses you by your full real name, even if your email ID doesn’t contain your name, it suggests that the sender may know you legitimately. Such emails are worth paying more attention to.

  Watch Out for Direct Links in Emails

  If you receive an email asking you to update personal or account details and it contains a direct link, proceed with caution. Most phishing scams use this tactic to lure you into clicking harmful links.

  A safer approach is when an email advises you to visit the official website to make updates, guiding you through the necessary steps. Emails regarding password expirations or account notifications can usually be trusted, but it’s always wise to remain cautious.

  There is an important exception: if you initiate a password reset, it is expected that the application or service will send you a direct link. Since you requested it and the timing aligns, such emails are typically safe to act upon.

  Urgency Is a Red Flag

  Most of us would agree that rushing to do anything rarely leads to good outcomes, and the same is true for emails. If a message urges you to take immediate action, such as claiming your account is in danger or offering a one-time deal, it is likely a scam.

  Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure us into making decisions without careful consideration. In contrast, reputable services typically allow enough time to respond and offer gentle reminders instead of alarming notifications.

  The Tricks Behind Seemingly Genuine Emails

  Scammers have become increasingly sophisticated. To bypass email providers’ spam filters, they use obfuscation, intentionally misspelling words in subtle ways that humans might overlook but machines might not detect. Here are some examples of common obfuscation tricks:

  | Actual Word| Obfuscated Variants|

  |——————|——————————|

  | Obesity  | Obe$ity, Obeslty, 0besity    |

  | Pills            | Pill$                        |

  | Weight Loss      | Weight l0ss, Weight lo$$   |

  | Enlarge          | Enl@rge, €nlarge              |

  | Money            | M0ney                        |

  These substitutions, such as replacing ‘s’ with ‘$’ or ‘a’ with ‘@’, are easy to miss, especially when reading quickly. They are meant to bypass spam detection systems while still conveying the original message to humans. Therefore, when you encounter such odd spellings in any sensitive email, take a moment to think before clicking or responding.

  One Final Tip: If It Sounds Too Easy…

  Any email that promises easy money, instant weight loss, or quick success is likely a scam. Scammers exploit our desire for convenience and fast results. In reality, there are no shortcuts, and taking the bait could cost you dearly. 

  To stay safe, it’s best to ignore such emails altogether. Better safe than sorry.

  Happy Reading!

  -He-

  July 4, 2025

  Avoiding Scams, Cybersecurity Tips, Email Safety, Internet Safety, Obfuscated Emails, Phishing Protection, Safe Email Practices, Scam Prevention, Spam Emails, Tech Awareness

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• From Cluttered to Clean: Mastering Email Safety

  In my recent posts, I have covered spam emails in detail – why we receive them, how legitimate marketing emails are sent, the tools involved, and the anti-spam laws implemented by various countries to safeguard user privacy. 

  Although senders, email service providers, and governments work to control spam, users must also take personal responsibility for protecting their data. Let us look at some simple steps we can take toward a cleaner, safer inbox.

  Two Different Email Boxes: Divide and Conquer

  Your email address is your first line of defense against spam. One effective strategy is to keep separate email addresses for critical and non-critical purposes. 

  Use one email for sensitive activities, such as banking, government IDs, and official communication. Share this address only with trusted family or friends.

  Use another email for general use — social media, shopping, newsletters, etc. 

  This practice helps reduce the chances of phishing and other malicious attempts on your primary email. Most phishing campaigns target email addresses gathered from public or commercial websites. If you receive such emails on your general-use account, you’ll know they aren’t linked to your sensitive services. 

  Additionally, unsecured web applications are another way scammers steal email credentials. If you reuse the same email and password everywhere, a single breach can compromise your entire digital life. Maintaining separate emails for different purposes adds a layer of safety.

  Avoid Public Exposure of Your Email Address

  Spammers often scrape websites or steal data from insecure platforms to build email lists. To avoid becoming a target: 

  – Don’t display your email openly on websites. 

  – If you must, obfuscate it. For example, use “name at gmail dot com” instead of name@gmail.com. This tricks bots while remaining understandable to humans.

  In today’s world, almost every store or app asks for your email in the name of digital billing, loyalty programs, or surveys. What follows is often a flood of marketing emails. Declining such requests not only protects your inbox but may also protect your wallet by preventing unnecessary purchases triggered by promotional emails.

  Avoid Clicking “Unsubscribe” (Sometimes)

  Many email providers offer an “Unsubscribe” option for bulk emails. However, clicking these links can backfire, especially in emails from untrusted or unknown senders. 

  Why? Because clicking “Unsubscribe” may confirm to the sender that your email address is real and active. Rather than removing you, they might send even more spam – or worse, sell your validated email address to others. 

  Similarly, avoid clicking links like:

  – “Update preferences”

  – “Remove me from this list”

  – “Mark as spam” (when it’s part of the email content)

  All of these can signal to spammers that your inbox is active.

  Use Folders and Filters

  Most modern email services allow you to create folders and apply filters. Take advantage of this:

  – Create folders for important contacts or services to make those emails stand out. 

  – Set up filters based on sender or subject to redirect promotional or suspicious messages to a separate folder. 

  This not only improves visibility but also reduces distractions and keeps your inbox focused on what truly matters.

  Use Single Sign-On (SSO) to Protect Your Passwords

  Many websites now support Single Sign-On (SSO), allowing you to log in using accounts like Google or Facebook. With SSO, you can access new platforms without creating new passwords or exposing your credentials to potentially insecure apps. 

  For example, signing into a site using your Gmail account eliminates the need to register separately. If you are already signed in to Gmail, it is just one click. 

  If you prefer traditional signups, never reuse passwords across sites. Use password managers like Bitwarden, 1Password, or LastPass to store unique credentials securely — so you don’t have to remember them all.

  In brief,

  A clean inbox isn’t just about hitting “delete.” It’s about adopting smart email habits — protecting your address, avoiding exposure, staying cautious with unsubscribe links, organizing wisely, and securing your credentials. 

  These simple practices go a long way in keeping your inbox clutter-free and your data safe. 

  In my next post, I will share practical tips on identifying scams or fraudulent emails. Stay tuned!

  Happy Reading.

  June 8, 2025

  Digital Privacy, email, Email Filters, Email Privacy, Email Security, Inbox Management, Online Hygiene, Phishing Prevention, Single Sign-on, Spam Protection

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• Understanding Global Anti-Spam Laws: How Countries Protect Your Inbox

  In my last post, I discussed the concepts of opt-in (including double opt-in), consent, and purpose-based email marketing. These practices were often not adopted voluntarily by organizations; rather, they were enforced through regulations introduced by various countries that prioritize the privacy of their citizens.

  While the laws may differ in name and structure, they all aim to protect email users from spam, scams, and data misuse. Below is a summary of the most prominent anti-spam laws currently active worldwide.

  1. CAN-SPAM Act (United States) 

  The CAN-SPAM Act is a U.S. law regulating commercial emails, including those sent in B2B communications. It emphasizes structural guidelines for emails rather than consent mechanisms.  

  Key requirements under the CAN-SPAM Act include:

     – Clear sender information

     – No misleading subject lines

     – Easy opt-out/unsubscribe mechanism

     – Proper identification of commercial content

     – Significant penalties for non-compliance  

  This law protects consumer interests by ensuring that businesses follow email best practices or face monetary penalties. Its focus lies in regulating the format and transparency of messages rather than the recipient’s prior consent.

  2. CASL (Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation)

  CASL is one of the most protective anti-spam laws globally. It governs not only emails but also SMS and social media messages. Unlike the CAN-SPAM Act, CASL requires explicit consent before sending any commercial electronic message (CEM).  

  Key differentiators of CASL:

     – Consent: Businesses must obtain explicit, active consent from recipients before sending CEMs.

     – Exceptions: There are exceptions for pre-existing business relationships, allowing limited communications without prior consent.

     – Software Installation: CASL prohibits unauthorized installation of software, including tracking technologies like cookies.

     – Data Alteration: It forbids tampering with electronic message content or metadata without consent.  

  Similar to CAN-SPAM, CASL requires clear unsubscribe options, sender identification, and includes significant fines for violations. It is enforced by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) and has influenced the development of similar laws in other countries.

  3. GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation – European Union)

  The GDPR is a comprehensive data privacy law that governs how organizations handle the personal data of EU residents. Unlike CAN-SPAM or CASL, it offers individuals detailed rights and establishes strict rules for data handling.  

  What makes GDPR stand out:

     – Scope: Applies to any organization processing the personal data of EU residents, regardless of the organization’s location.

     – Individual Control: Individuals have the right to access, rectify, delete, and restrict the processing of their personal data.

     – Organizational Accountability: Companies must be transparent about how they collect, use, and store personal data.  

  Core Principles of GDPR:

     – Lawfulness, Fairness, and Transparency: Processing must have a valid legal basis, be fair to the individual, and be communicated clearly, ensuring transparency in how personal data is collected and used.  

     – Purpose Limitation: Data should only be collected for specific, legitimate purposes and must not be used for purposes incompatible with the original intent.  

     – Data Minimization: Only the minimum necessary data should be collected in relation to the intended purpose—no excessive data collection.  

     – Accuracy: Organizations must ensure that personal data is accurate, complete, and kept up to date wherever necessary.  

     – Storage Limitation: Personal data should be retained only as long as necessary to fulfill the purpose for which it was collected.  

     – Integrity and Confidentiality: Data must be processed in a manner that ensures appropriate security, including protection against unauthorized or unlawful access, processing, loss, or destruction.  

     – Accountability: Organizations are responsible for complying with these principles and must be able to demonstrate their compliance through documentation, practices, and internal controls.  

  Key Obligations under GDPR:

     – Consent: Must be obtained unless another legal basis for data processing exists.

     – Data Protection by Design and Default: Integrate privacy into all systems and processes from the outset.

     – Breach Notification: Inform individuals and authorities within 72 hours of a data breach.

     – Data Portability: Individuals must be able to receive their data in a portable, machine-readable format.

     – Right to be Forgotten: Individuals can request the erasure of their personal data under certain conditions.  

  Penalties: Organizations that violate these regulations can face fines up to €20 million or 4% of their annual global turnover, whichever is greater, far higher than penalties under CAN-SPAM or CASL. The GDPR is a vital regulation in today’s data-centric business landscape, setting the gold standard for data privacy globally.

  Other Notable Anti-Spam Laws:

     – Australia: Spam Act 2003

     – Japan: Act on Regulation of Transmission

     – Singapore: Spam Control Act 2007

     – South Africa: Electronic Communications and Transactions Act 2002

  Conclusion

  These laws highlight the global significance of digital privacy and demonstrate how countries hold businesses accountable for the collection, use, and sharing of personal data.  

  Even with strong legal protections in place, our privacy ultimately begins with us. Staying informed and exercising caution are essential to safeguarding our personal information in today’s connected world.  

  In my next post, I will share practical steps you can take to protect your data and avoid common privacy pitfalls in your everyday digital life.

  Happy Reading

  -He-

  May 6, 2025

  Anti-Spam Laws, CAN-SPAM Act, CASL, cybersecurity, Data Privacy, Digital Marketing Regulations, Email Compliance, Email Marketing, Email Security, GDPR, privacy, User Consent

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• Opt-In to Purpose-Based Email Marketing: The Path to Respectful Communication

  In my last post, I discussed spam emails at length. Now, imagine a world where all emails, except personal one-to-one and transactional emails are completely blocked in the fight against spam. Our inboxes might become cleaner, maybe even empty. However, the impact on businesses worldwide would be catastrophic. Many companies, especially small ones, rely heavily on email communication for survival.

  So, what could be the solution?

  We need an optimal path between email senders and receivers a win-win situation. That optimal path, in today’s email landscape, is Opt-In based email marketing. Related terms you might come across are Consent-Based and Purpose-Based email marketing. While they have subtle differences, they all aim for the same goal: ensuring emails are sent with the recipient’s permission and for the intended purpose.

  What is Opt-In?

  You might have noticed checkboxes next to final action buttons like “Submit,” “Sign Up,” or “Apply” while using websites or apps. They often say things like:

  • Subscribe to our newsletters.
  • I’m happy to receive updates or offers.
  • Keep me informed about new products, etc.

  These checkboxes represent permission requests allowing companies to send promotional emails for upselling or cross-selling their products or services. This method is called Single Opt-In.

  However, although it’s permission-based, Single Opt-In has its risks. It’s relatively easy for someone to sign up for another person’s email address without consent. That’s where Double Opt-In comes in.

  What is Double Opt-In?

  Double Opt-In adds an extra layer of verification. After filling out a form, the user receives an email asking them to confirm their subscription by clicking a link. Only after this confirmation is the opt-in finalized.

  This ensures that the email address is valid and that the real owner genuinely agrees to receive communication. Most legitimate businesses and all leading Email Service Providers (ESPs) mandate Double Opt-In to maintain high email deliverability and trust.

  Initially, Double Opt-In was seen as a gold standard for privacy and safety.

  However, some businesses began to misuse it by:

  • Consolidating permissions under one brand and utilizing them across the various brands they own.
  • Sharing customer email addresses with subsidiaries.
  • Selling email databases to partner companies.

  Example:

  You may opt in to receive emails from “Lakme,” but you might also start receiving emails about “Dove.” Although both brands are owned by Unilever, you did not explicitly agree to receive communications from multiple brands when you opted in.

  Consent-Based or Purpose-Based Email Marketing

  As misuse of Double Opt-In grew, countries and organizations stepped in with stricter regulations. Now, it’s not enough just to get consent, you must use that consent only for the specific purpose stated at the time of collection.

  Consent-Based or Purpose-Based Email Marketing ensures that when users opt-in, their permission is limited to a particular subject, brand, or service, nothing more.

  Many countries have even passed laws enforcing these principles. (I will discuss these laws in detail in my next post!)

  To comply, most ESPs now offer Consent Management or Topic Management modules. 

  These tools:

  • Allow users to update their preferences easily.
  • Require businesses to offer “Update Preferences” links alongside “Unsubscribe” options.
  • Prevent marketers from sending emails across unrelated topics or brands.

  Example of consent topics users can select:

  • Periodic newsletters from the company
  • Updates about new features in a product they use
  • Announcements about new product launches
  • Offers and promotions
  • Industry news and general information

  Each of these options has a distinct purpose, and users can choose what they want (and don’t want) to receive.

  Final Thoughts

  The email marketing landscape has evolved significantly, moving from the chaotic early days of spam to a more respectful, permission-based approach. However, this journey is far from complete. As long as some senders prioritize short-term profits over customer privacy, email marketing will keep evolving.

  Businesses that respect user consent and operate with clear purposes will not only survive but also thrive. The future belongs to those who prioritize customer trust above all else.

  Happy Reading.

  -He-

  April 26, 2025

  Consent Based Markeing, digital-marketing, Double Opt-in, email, Email Consent, Email Marketing, Email Marketing Best Practices, Email Privacy, email-marketing, marketing, Opt-in, Purpose Based Marketing, Subscriber Preferences

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• SPAM Emails Explained: Why You Get Them and Who’s Behind It

  The primary goal of most SPAM emails is to generate traffic for websites or applications. Common examples include emails promoting adult websites, lottery scams, or gambling platforms. Additionally, some emails may push fake offers or promotional content simply to drive clicks and engagement.

  However, these SPAM emails are rarely sent by the businesses or websites they claim to promote. Sending emails in such large volumes requires a robust infrastructure, something that many businesses cannot afford or manage. Reaching a vast audience also necessitates access to extensive recipient lists.

  So, who is actually sending these emails?

  Spammers are the key players in this ecosystem. They possess the necessary infrastructure and massive email databases. Some businesses looking for exposure pay these spammers to send bulk emails on their behalf. In other cases, spammers sell recipient lists to businesses that can already send bulk emails themselves.

  (In a separate post, I will explore how spammers acquire their extensive lists of email addresses and the tactics they use.)

  Legitimate businesses, on the other hand, must follow email marketing laws, which vary by country. Most regulations require that promotional emails be sent only after obtaining explicit consent from recipients. Fortunately, there are many bulk email service providers (ESPs) that support compliant email marketing, such as MailChimp, Constant Contact, and HubSpot. These platforms offer the infrastructure and tools necessary for ethical, consent-based marketing.

  If you receive an unsolicited promotional email without having opted in, it is considered SPAM. 

  (We will cover more about consent and email marketing laws in another post.)

  Types of Notorious SPAM Emails: Scams, Fraud, and Phishing

  Some of the most dangerous SPAM emails involve fraud, scams, or phishing attempts. These emails are crafted to trick recipients into stealing money or sensitive information. Here are a few common examples:

  1. Impersonation of Known Applications (e.g., Banks): 

     These phishing emails appear to come from your bank, claiming that urgent action is needed. They often contain links to fake websites that mimic your bank’s official site and prompt you to enter your login details. Once entered, your account can be compromised. 

     Tip: Always access your bank’s site through bookmarks or by manually typing the URL into a trusted browser, never through email links.

  2. Impersonation of Known Individuals (e.g., Your Boss): 

     You may receive an email claiming to be from someone you trust, like your manager, stating they are in an emergency and requesting a money transfer or gift card. 

     Tip: Always verify through a direct phone call before taking any action.

  3. “Nigerian Prince” or Unclaimed Money Scams: 

     These classic emails promise unclaimed funds or propose lucrative business partnerships. In reality, they are just trying to extract money or personal details from you.

  4. Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers: 

     Some emails claim to sell premium brand products at unrealistically low prices. They may say you can pay after receiving the product but require a “small” upfront shipping fee, this is all they want. Others may pretend to forward a message meant for someone else, hinting at a valuable parcel. This baiting technique appeals to curiosity or greed, leading to financial loss.

  5. Malware & Ransomware Emails: 

     These are among the most dangerous. Such emails usually contain attachments or links that appear legitimate, often seeming to come from trusted apps or contacts. However, once opened or downloaded, they can infect your device with malware. Some malware can turn your system into a botnet for illegal activities, while others can lock your files or system entirely, demanding a ransom for release, a form of cyber extortion known as ransomware.

  Ongoing Efforts and Responsibilities

  Email providers continually work to shield users from SPAM, malware, and other cyber threats. Organizations like M3AAWG (Messaging, Malware, and Mobile Anti-Abuse Working Group) bring together industry leaders to combat these attacks.

  While significant improvements have been made over the years, the battle between spammers and defenders is ongoing. 

  Promotional emails can be legitimate if sent with proper consent and ethical practices. It’s not just up to inbox providers to keep email safe and effective; the responsibility also lies with senders to follow best practices and uphold email marketing standards.

  Together, we can keep the email ecosystem clean, trustworthy, and powerful.

  Happy Reading!

  -He-

  April 14, 2025

  Anti-spam Initiative, Bulk Emails, Email Consent, Email Laws, Email Scams, Email Security, email-marketing, M3AAWG, Malware Emails, Nigerian Scams, phishing, Phishing Emails, Ransomware, scams, Spam Emails

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• Email Categories Demystified: A Guide for Modern Users & Businesses

  Emails have become an integral part of our daily lives. Before 2005, owning an email account was considered a luxury. To check emails, one needed a computer which was expensive or had to visit an internet cafe and pay by the minute.

  However, everything changed with the arrival of Gmail. Starting with an unprecedented 5GB inbox when most others were offering storage in mere megabytes and now offering 15GB, Gmail completely revolutionized the email experience. Combined with the rise of affordable computers, cheaper internet, and the widespread adoption of smartphones, the email landscape underwent a massive transformation. Nearly two decades later, email has become omnipresent. According to some statistics, over 100,000 emails are sent and received every minute globally, amounting to more than 300 billion emails per day as of 2024.

  But how are so many emails being generated? Are they all personal, one-to-one messages? Not quite.

  If you check your inbox, you’ll notice a wide variety of emails from personal messages to completely unrelated ones. Let’s explore the different types of emails commonly received:

  1. Personal Emails

  These are one-to-one or one-to-many messages exchanged with people you know personally. Services like Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo provide inboxes under their own domains for such communications. These emails typically have 100% deliverability, unless you block the sender yourself.

  2. Transactional Emails

  These emails are triggered by specific actions or transactions on websites or applications. Examples include:

  • Bank transaction alerts
    
  • One-Time Passwords (OTPs) for authentication
    
  • Invoices, bills, or receipts for purchases

  They are sent directly from the domain where the action took place. These emails are generally trusted by email providers and enjoy near-perfect deliverability.

  3. Semi-Transactional Emails

  These are reminders related to actions you’ve started but haven’t completed, for example:

  • Abandoned cart emails from Amazon or other online stores
    
  • “We miss you” messages from platforms you haven’t accessed in a while

  I call these semi-transactional because they often carry subtle promotional intent alongside their original purpose. While they usually come from domains you’ve interacted with, their deliverability may vary. Email providers might classify them as promotional, depending on their content.

  4. Support or Business Emails

  This category includes:

  • Replies from customer support agents
    
  • CRM emails containing webinar or demo links from pre-sales teams
    
  • Negotiation emails from sales representatives

  The deliverability of these emails depends largely on the sender domain’s reputation. If the domain has a poor reputation often due to spam markings or bad sending behavior, these emails may end up in the spam folder. This is a common issue for businesses that don’t follow proper email-sending practices. I’ll be writing a dedicated post soon to cover best practices for businesses to improve their email deliverability.

  5. Promotional Emails

  These are the most common types of emails cluttering our inboxes:

  • Discounts and offers
    
  • Lead nurturing emails
    
  • Sales announcements

  In fact, Gmail introduced a dedicated “Promotions” tab to keep such emails separate from more important ones. There’s an entire multi-billion-dollar industry around email marketing and automation that helps businesses send such campaigns to their leads and customers.

  To combat excessive promotional emails, many countries have introduced laws to protect users from email overload. I’ll cover these laws in a separate post.

  6. Spam or Fraud Emails

  Finally, there’s the category we all dread, spam and fraudulent emails. Email service providers work tirelessly to protect users from such content, but some of it still manages to sneak through. I’ll go into more detail about spam and scam emails in an upcoming post.

  Thanks for reading.

  -He-

  April 5, 2025

  Business Emails, Email Deliverability, Email Inbox, Email Types, Emails, Personal Emails, Promotional Emails, Transactional Emails

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• Understanding Email: A Beginner’s Guide

  In today’s digital world, emails have become an essential part of daily life. Even primary school children need email accounts to stay connected and participate in online or digital projects. With this in mind, I thought it would be helpful to write a post for kids or any first-time email users to give them a basic understanding of how emails work.

  Each day, billions of emails are sent and received worldwide, thanks to faster and more affordable internet access. In this post, we’ll first take a look at how email addresses are structured and explore some popular email providers.

  Email Address Structure

  Just as we all have unique home addresses, email addresses are also unique to each person. An email address consists of two parts, separated by the ‘@’ symbol:

  name-part + ‘@’ + domain-part

  • Name-part: This part represents the person’s name (e.g., ‘John’). Email addresses are case-insensitive, so ‘JOHN’, ‘John’, or ‘john’ are treated the same. However, if one person has an email address like ‘john’, no one else can create the same address. They may have to use variations like ‘john1’, ‘john_1’, etc.
    
  • Domain-part: This part refers to the email service provider, such as ‘gmail.com’, ‘outlook.com’, etc.
    

  Popular Email Providers

  Here are some of the most popular email providers offering free personal email accounts:

  • Gmail (Google)
    
  • Outlook (Microsoft)
    
  • Zoho Mail (Zoho)
    
  • Yahoo Mail (Yahoo)
    
  • iCloud Mail (Apple)
    

  Sending Emails: One, Two, or Many

  Just like sending a letter to one person and making copies for others, emails can be sent to one, two, or many recipients at the same time. When sending copies, you may or may not want the other recipients to know who else is receiving the email. This is where CC and BCC come in.

  • To: The main recipient’s email address goes here.
    
  • CC (Carbon Copy): If you want others to be informed that they are receiving a copy of the email, add their email addresses in the CC field. All recipients can see who was included in the CC.
    
  • BCC (Blind Carbon Copy): If you want to send a copy to someone without the other recipients knowing, use the BCC field.
    

  Email Content: Subject and Message

  An email consists of two main parts: the Subject and the Content. The subject is a brief introduction to your message, and it’s the most important part of the email. A compelling subject line can make your recipient curious enough to open your email and read the content.

  The Content is where you write the main message. This is where you share the detailed information or conversation you want to communicate.

  In a future post, I’ll dive deeper into the technical aspects of creating and sending emails.

  -He-

  March 27, 2025

  Email Basics, Email Beginners, Email Etiquette, Email Structure, Email Tips

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• Building a Strong Foundation: Your First Three Years in the Workforce

  The first three years of your career are crucial in shaping your professional journey. The choices you make during this period can significantly impact your growth, learning, and future opportunities. Here’s a guide on how to approach this foundational phase of your career wisely.

  1. Choose Your First Company Wisely

  Starting your career in a small company or a startup can be more beneficial than joining a large corporation. Why? Because smaller companies often provide opportunities to work across multiple roles, allowing you to gain diverse skills and a deeper understanding of your field. Unlike big corporations, where work is often compartmentalized, smaller setups encourage versatility and hands-on experience.

  Moreover, your hard work and contributions are more visible in a smaller organization, increasing your chances of rapid growth and recognition. In contrast, large companies may have rigid structures where career progression can be slower and more bureaucratic.

  2. Focus on Learning, Not Just Earnings

  While salary is important, prioritizing learning and skill development in your early years is even more crucial. Knowledge and expertise are what will eventually bring you greater financial rewards.

  Instead of making career decisions based solely on monetary benefits, evaluate the potential for growth and learning in your current role. Does it challenge you? Are you acquiring new skills? Are you getting exposure to new technologies and industry trends? These factors matter more in the long run.

  3. Be Open to Change and Adaptability

  Early in your career, you might be asked to switch teams, take on different roles, or even relocate. Rather than resisting these changes, embrace them. Adaptability is a valuable skill that will open doors to unexpected opportunities. Avoid the mindset of settling too soon—explore different areas within your industry before deciding on a long-term direction.

  4. Take on Additional Responsibilities

  Don’t shy away from extra responsibilities thinking they’re just added workload. Volunteering for new tasks can help you learn faster, build credibility, and establish yourself as a proactive and reliable professional. Many successful careers have been built by individuals who stepped up when an opportunity presented itself.

  5. Stay Updated with Industry Trends

  If you’re in tech, for example, working in a startup can expose you to the latest technologies rather than proprietary tools that are unique to big corporations. Stay curious and invest extra time in understanding your domain. Read industry news, take online courses, attend workshops, and engage with professional communities. Keeping up with trends ensures that you remain relevant and competitive in the job market.

  6. Treat the First Three Years as a Training Period

  Most companies have a formal training period of six months to a year, but you should view your entire first three years as a learning phase. This mindset will help you focus on growth rather than quick gains. If your work aligns with your interests and has future potential, dedicate these years to building expertise and credibility.

  7. Avoid Frequent Job Switching

  Unless you find yourself in an entirely unsuitable work environment, try to stay with your first company for at least three years. Jumping jobs too frequently can create a negative impression on your resume, making future employers question your stability and commitment. Stability in your early years builds a strong foundation and provides the opportunity to master skills before moving on.

  Final Thoughts

  Your first three years in the workforce set the stage for the rest of your career. Choose learning over short-term financial gains, be open to challenges, and proactively seek growth. If you invest wisely in your skills and experience now, the rewards—both professional and financial—will follow in the years to come

  -He-

  March 20, 2025

  Career Foundation, Career Progression, Career Start, Entry-Level Careers, First Job, Learning At Work, Learning Focus, Learning Mindset, Stay Curious, Successful Career, Workforce Tips

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