Why outdated email attachments remain one of the biggest cybersecurity risks in 2025 - and what your business should use instead
Email attachments have been around since the early days of the internet, but the world has changed dramatically. In 2025, attachments remain one of the most common entry points for ransomware, phishing attacks, and business email compromise. Even with modern filters, antivirus tools, and advanced threat protection, the newest attacks still slip through - often within minutes of being created.
Allowing anyone on the internet to send you an attachment is a bit like leaving your front door unlocked and hoping intruders get caught on the stairs. It’s outdated, risky, and unnecessary - because better, safer tools now exist.
Why Email Attachments Are Still Dangerous in 2025
Despite 30 years of evolution, attachments themselves have not fundamentally changed - but cybercrime has. Even with filtering and scanning, malicious files can slip through before threat intelligence systems detect them.
Once opened, a single malicious attachment can install malware, steal passwords, encrypt files with ransomware, or compromise email accounts.
Modern Cyber Threats That Exploit Attachments
- Ransomware loaders: disguised as invoices or delivery notices.
- Business Email Compromise (BEC): attackers impersonate suppliers and send “urgent” attachments.
- AI-generated phishing: flawless emails with weaponised documents.
- Zero-day exploits: malicious PDFs or Office files that bypass scanners.
All it takes is one employee opening one attachment.
What to Use Instead of Email Attachments
Modern cloud platforms such as Microsoft OneDrive, SharePoint, Teams, Dropbox, and Citrix ShareFile all provide safe alternatives that eliminate the need for traditional attachments.
Send a File: Use “Share” Instead of Attach
Upload your file and click Share. The recipient gets a secure link instead of a risky attachment.
Receive a File: Use “File Request”
Services like OneDrive and Dropbox allow you to create a File Request link so someone can upload files safely - without giving them access to anything else.
Security Benefits of Using File Sharing Instead
- End-to-end encryption protects files in transit.
- Expiring access links automatically disable after a set time.
- Revoke access instantly if sent to the wrong person.
- Track access to see when files were opened.
- Version control means no more duplicates like “FINAL_2_REALLY_FINAL.docx”.
- Compliance ready for industries like finance, accounting, and legal.
Once staff are comfortable with this safer workflow, many businesses choose to block attachments entirely, allowing sharing only via approved platforms.
When to Block Email Attachments Completely
You should consider blocking inbound attachments when:
- You operate in a highly regulated industry (Finance, Accounting, Legal, Healthcare).
- You frequently handle sensitive client data.
- Your risk assessment shows a high likelihood of phishing attempts.
- Your business uses Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace - making links the safer alternative.
We’ve implemented this for many customers across Berkshire, especially those needing strict security controls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are email attachments really that dangerous?
Yes. Attachments are one of the top entry points for ransomware and phishing attacks - especially with modern AI-generated scams.
What if external clients refuse to use file request links?
A short explanation usually resolves this. Most people prefer safer upload links once they understand the risks.
Can blocking attachments break email communication?
No. You can block only risky files (e.g., .exe, .zip, .js) or implement a phased rollout with exceptions.
Is OneDrive safer than email attachments?
Yes - OneDrive uses encryption, access controls, and time-limited links. Attachments have none of these protections.
Do cloud file links work with mobile devices?
Yes. They work across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android with no special software required.
Make Email Attachments a Thing of the Past
At Telanova, we help businesses across Ascot, Bracknell, Wokingham, Reading and the wider Berkshire area transition to modern, secure file-sharing platforms.
We can manage the entire process for you - setup, training, implementation, and safe attachment blocking.
Book a discovery call or call 01344 989 530 to get started.
