Beware: Clicking “Unsubscribe” in Emails Could Put Your Personal Data at Risk, Experts Warn

With inboxes constantly flooded by marketing emails, many people instinctively hit “unsubscribe” and move on. But cybersecurity professionals are urging caution—what seems like a harmless click could actually expose your personal information and even compromise your device.

A growing number of scams are exploiting the unsubscribe feature in emails, particularly in services like Gmail, where users often trust the interface. What looks like a straightforward option to stop receiving emails might actually be a trap set by cybercriminals to verify that your email account is real—and active.

The Hidden Dangers Behind ‘Unsubscribe’ Links

According to a report highlighted by The Wall Street Journal, scammers are embedding tracking codes in unsubscribe buttons. When clicked, these links may quietly confirm to attackers that your email address is active. This confirmation significantly increases the value of your email on underground black market forums, where “live” email addresses are a hot commodity.

Some of these unsubscribe links go even further, redirecting users outside the secure environment of their email app and into potentially malicious websites designed to steal data or install malware. TK Keanini, Chief Technology Officer at DNSFilter, likens this redirection to stepping out of a safe neighborhood and into a dangerous alleyway online.

DNSFilter’s own analysis found that about one in every 644 unsubscribe links can lead users to harmful sites—a small but significant risk given how many emails we receive daily.

How to Stay Safe When Unsubscribing

To help users protect themselves from this rising threat, cybersecurity experts recommend the following practices:

• Use the built-in unsubscribe tool in your email client. Gmail, Outlook, and other platforms offer a native unsubscribe feature that works from within your inbox—eliminating the need to click through external links.

• Avoid interacting with emails from unfamiliar or suspicious sources. If something feels off, it probably is. Instead of clicking anything, simply mark the email as spam.

• Never click on unsubscribe links from senders you don’t recognize or trust. These are more likely to be scams trying to bait clicks.

• Take advantage of privacy tools. Services like Apple’s “Hide My Email” and browser extensions for Chrome or Firefox can help mask your real email address and reduce exposure.

• Keep your apps and antivirus software updated. Regular updates ensure you have the latest protections against evolving threats.

While the “unsubscribe” button has long been seen as a way to take control of your inbox, it’s becoming clear that not all of them can be trusted. As cybercriminals get smarter and more subtle in their tactics, users must stay alert and think twice before clicking any link—no matter how innocent it may seem.

Next time an unwanted email lands in your inbox, consider using your email provider’s built-in tools or marking it as spam. A moment of caution today can prevent a much bigger security headache tomorrow.