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Unsolicited e-mail (commonly referred to as "spam" or junk mail) is a growing problem. Recent studies show half of all mail messages today may be unwanted. These unwanted e-mail messages represent lost productivity, and since many also contain computer viruses, may also cause data loss.
To help counteract junk mail, the Office of Information Technology has implemented a tool called the Junk Mail Analyzer.
The junk mail analyzer works by performing various tests on e-mail messages and assigning a score to the e-mail based on those tests. Higher numbered results mean an increased likelihood that the message is junk mail. The junk mail analyzer puts a tag--e.g. [Junk Mail]--in front of the subject line of messages that score over a certain threshold you set. You can set your mail client to filter tagged messages locally. How you choose to manage it at that point is a function of your client and your own preferences.
You can also customize other elements the tool analyzes. For example, you can restrict all mail from a certain site or all mail written in a specific language. We recommend that you read more about the Junk Mail Analyzer by clicking the links in the Documentation and Support box to the right.
Prior to implementing the Junk Mail Analyzer you must have a "consolidated ID." That means your Directory-ID must match your OIT email User IDs. If you need to go through the consolidation process, use the links in the Pre-Implementation box to the right or call the OIT Help Desk at (301) 405-1500.
If you don't need to perform the Pre-Implementation steps you may go directly to Implementation.
The three steps listed in the Implementation box to the right will help you make full use of the Junk Mail Analyzer. However, you can receive some benefits simply by electing to have your mail scored, the first step. In fact, phasing in to your use of the tool is recommended. An effective approach is to opt in using the default settings, gauge the impact on your junk mail, and then alter the default settings and/or set up additional filters.
The Junk Mail Analyzer is an automated tool: e-mail is analyzed by software, not read by individuals. Please note that the tool does NOT delete mail based on the settings you select. It assists you in managing Junk Mail locally with your E-mail client. You still must handle it (delete, save, etc) at that level.
For further assistance please call the OIT Help Desk at (301) 405-1500.
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