Email hacking Overview
Email is a very widely used communication method. If an email account is hacked, it can allow the attacker access to the personal, sensitive or confidential information in the mail storage; as well as allowing them to read new incoming and outgoing email - and to send and receive as the legitimate owner. On some email platforms, it may also allow them to setup automated email processing rules. All of these could be very harmful for the legitimate user.
Attacks
There are a number of ways in which a hacker can illegally gain access to an email account.
Virus
Main article: Computer virus
A virus or other malware can be sent via email, and if executed may be able to capture the user's password and send it to an attacker.[3]
Phishing
Main article: Phishing
Phishing involves emails that appear to be from legitimate sender but are scams which ask for verification of personal information, such as an account number, a password, or a date of birth. If unsuspecting victims respond, the result may be stolen accounts, financial loss, or identity theft.