We see countless businesses still using a gmail, comcast, or other isp email address on their website and business cards. Domain names are so inexpensive, and security is such a priority, this is a mistake. Not only does it look unprofessional for you to be utilizing a free email service, IT IS! By using a free email service, you are also sacrificing a great opportunity to keep your business name top of mind. Included in this report is 5 Reasons why using a free email service is dangerous for your company.
1.Hackers love free email accounts
Because of the vast number of users on services such as gmail, Hotmail, and yahoo hackers consolidate their efforts on these large databases of users. When a hacker gains access to your account they will spam all your clients, vendors, and employees phish emails, adult content, or possibly malicious ransomware
2. Looks Unprofessional
Not using a company domain email can send these messages:
- This is a personal account, I also use for business
- My company can’t afford a website or professional email
- We don’t value your privacy or the security of your data
3. Your email may not get to the recipient
Spammers use these free accounts so they can easily setup 1000s of accounts to spam users. Therefore, your account may be also relegated to the junk folder to never be seen.
4. No Support
Do you know the phone number for free gmail support? Hint: There isn’t one! If you aren’t paying for a service, what type of support do you think you are entitled to? Most premium email solutions offer help desk support a minimum.
5. Compliance and Security
If you are in a business that communicates any personal identifiable information or in an industry the requires any type of compliance you can not use a free email service. Example of these industries is:
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- Healthcare
- Accounting/Financial Services
- Legal
- Manufacturing
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HIPAA, FNRA, NIST, PCI, and almost any other compliance regulation requires you to take communication security very seriously.
Conclusion
A secure and professional email solution is no longer optional. If you are an accountant, attorney, or financial advisor your clients will choose another provider if you have a @gmail.com, @comcast.net, @yahoo.com, or other free email service account. For less then the cost of a cup of coffee your firm can have a secure, professional, and supported email solution.
If your firm is still using a free email service and looking to make this transition, companies like Plus 1 Technology offer setup and migration services. All your current email can be migrated to the new email address and you will have the benefits of a professional email account.
