Sending and opening email attachments

In short: With the paper-clip you attach files to an email. Open unknown attachments only if you expect them, because they are a common route for malware.

In more detail: Attachments are usually limited to about 20–25 MB. Share larger files via a cloud link. If unsure about the sender, ask back by another route.

In Depth

• Attaching: Paper-clip icon → choose file, or drag the file into the message.
• Opening: Double-click the attachment. Many programs show a preview first.
• Dangerous types: .exe, .scr, .bat, .js, macros in Office files. Password-protected ZIPs from strangers are suspicious.
• Reducing size: Shrink pictures, zip several files.
• PDF instead of Word: PDFs look the same everywhere and are harder to change.
• Forgotten? Many programs warn if the text says “attached” and the attachment is missing.

See also: Email for beginners, Creating and reading PDF files