Which method is often used to filter out malicious emails?

Content-based filtering is a widely adopted method for identifying and filtering out malicious emails. This technique analyzes the content of the email, including the subject line, body text, attachments, and links, to detect potential threats such as phishing attempts, malware, or spam. Algorithms and predefined rules assess the characteristics of the email content, allowing the filtering system to determine whether the email is trustworthy or harmful.

This method is particularly effective because many malicious emails use specific language, formats, or patterns that can be recognized and flagged. By employing techniques such as keyword detection, machine learning, and natural language processing, content-based filtering can continuously improve its effectiveness as it learns from new threats and evolving tactics used by attackers. This makes it a crucial line of defense in email security strategies.

In contrast, other methods such as time-based filtering, sender identity verification, and network traffic analysis focus on different aspects of email security but do not primarily center on the content itself, which is where many malicious indicators are found. Time-based filtering might analyze when an email is received but isn't inherently focused on malicious intent. Sender identity verification checks if the sender's address is legitimate but doesn't evaluate the message content, which is essential for identifying harmful emails. Network traffic analysis examines the flow of data through