What Happens If You Open a Spam Email? And What You Should Do Next

In today’s hyper-connected world, the occasional spam email is practically inevitable. Maybe it was hidden amongst your genuine messages, or perhaps curiosity got the better of you. Either way, if you’re wondering what happens if you open a spam email, you’re not alone.

Before panic sets in, take a breath. Simply opening a spam email doesn’t always mean disaster. But if you’ve clicked a suspicious link or downloaded an attachment, you may have exposed your device or data to risks. This guide walks you through exactly what to do if you accidentally open a spam email or worse, interact with its content.

What happens if you open a spam email?

Let’s clarify: just opening a spam email is often harmless, especially if you haven’t clicked on anything inside it.

That said, some spam emails are crafted with tracking pixels that can notify the sender that your email address is active. Once they know you’ve opened the email, your inbox might be flooded with even more malicious content.

But the real threat begins when you click on the email. If you click a phishing link or download a dangerous file, that’s where the real damage begins.

What to do if you accidentally open a spam email

If you’ve only opened the email and haven’t clicked on any links or attachments, you’re probably safe. But there are still steps worth taking:

1. Don’t interact further – Don’t click links, reply, or download anything.
2. Mark it as spam – Use your email provider’s spam feature to block future messages from the sender.
3. Scan your device – Run a quick malware scan just to be cautious.
4. Update your software – Ensure that your operating system, browser, and antivirus software are all up to date.

What to do if you opened a spam email attachment

Now, if you’ve downloaded or opened an attachment, the situation changes.

Spam attachments can contain malware, ransomware, spyware, or trojans. Some may quietly sit in your system gathering data; others can lock your files and demand payment.

Here’s what to do if you opened a spam email attachment:

1. Disconnect from the internet immediately – This limits the attacker’s access.
2. Run a full malware scan – Use a reputable antivirus program. If malware is detected, follow the removal instructions carefully.
3. Change your passwords – Start with email and financial accounts. If the attachment contained a keylogger, your credentials could be compromised.
4. Check for unusual activity – Review bank statements, login histories, and other accounts for signs of misuse.
5. Consider professional help – If you suspect a serious breach, contact an IT security expert for your email security.

What to do if you have opened a phishing email (without clicking anything)

Opening the email alone, without clicking links or downloading attachments, doesn’t usually result in infection. But phishing emails are often sophisticated—using brand logos, familiar language, or even names you recognise.

So here’s what to do if you have opened a phishing email:

• Avoid clicking anything—even an “unsubscribe” button.
• Report it to your email provider or your company’s IT department.
• Stay alert to any follow-up phishing attempts that may come from different addresses.

How to prevent this from happening again

• Be cautious with unfamiliar senders – Look out for email addresses that don’t match the display name.
• Hover over links before clicking – This reveals the actual URL destination.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on important accounts.
• Educate your team or family – Phishing isn’t just a tech issue—it’s a people problem.

Final thoughts

Spam and phishing emails aren’t just annoying—they can be dangerous. But knowing what to do if you open a spam email or what to do if you open a phishing email attachment puts you back in control.

Whether you clicked, downloaded, or just opened the message by mistake, prompt action can prevent bigger problems. Stay informed, stay cautious, and always trust your instincts when something feels off.