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Handling Unwanted Mail

Below are some strategies for managing unwanted emails in Outlook. Specific instructions may vary depending on the device and version of Outlook you are using.

1. Use the Junk Email Filter

Outlook has a built-in junk email filter that can automatically identify and move unwanted emails to the Junk folder.

  • You can adjust the filter settings by right clicking on an email and choosing Junk Email Options in the Outlook App.
  • Choose Settings > Junk email in the Outlook Web App.

2. Block or Never Block Senders

If you receive repeated unwanted emails or never want to block emails from specific addresses:

  • Right-click the email from the sender and select Block or Never Block.

3. Report Phishing or Spam

If you receive suspicious emails, report them to Microsoft:

  • Right-click on the email and select Report Phishing or Report Spam.

4. Create Rules

Set up rules to automatically move, delete, or categorize incoming emails based on specific criteria:

  • Go to Home > Rules > Manage Rules.
  • Create a new rule to filter messages based on sender, subject, or other criteria.

5. Unsubscribe

For unwanted newsletters or promotional email, look for an “unsubscribe” link at the bottom of the email. Clicking this will remove you from their mailing list.

6. Review Your Subscriptions

Regularly check and manage your email subscriptions. Consider using services that help manage subscriptions.

7. Use Focused Inbox

Enable Focused Inbox to separate important emails from the rest:

  • Go to View > View Settings > Layout.

8. Regular Maintenance

Periodically review your Junk folder and rules to ensure they’re still effective.