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Content filtering automatically classifies incoming mail as spam or legitimate mail, using parameters like keywords and source addresses. Personal content filtering can be customized using the Bayesian method, allowing users to train the software to accept or reject mail. Advanced content filtering can also sort mail into different folders and assign custom colors.
Content filtering is the automated process of classifying incoming mail as spam or legitimate mail. Spam is unsolicited unwanted mail, often originating from “untraceable” sources sent in mass mailings. This process can take place on a mail server, a personal computer, or both. If run on a home or office computer, legitimate mail can be further classified for personal purposes, as per one’s desire.
A mail server running a spam filter has the built-in ability to reject mail based on various parameters such as keywords, source addresses, or other header information. Many mail servers run some type of content filtering software, but this is often not enough to keep spam at bay. Mail server spam filters need to be somewhat generic, relatively speaking, to account for a customer base.
Filtering personal content can be extremely specific. The most popular type of software for this process uses the Bayesian method. In this case, the software that performs content filtering is “trained” by the user to accept or reject mail. This is referred to as “smart” filtering. The software logs metrics based on rejected mail and performs statistical analysis on incoming mail to see if there is a likelihood that new mail is spam.
When the program gets it wrong, it’s easy for the user to correct the error by taking an action such as clicking the “Keep” button or moving the rejected mail to the accepted folder. Conversely, if spam goes through, a “Spam” button or equivalent action can correct the error. The program updates its parameters for future instances. Soon the program requires little or no user intervention.
The Bayesian method allows each user to customize the content filter according to their needs. What is spam to one person might be of interest to another. Intelligent content filtering also allows the user to change their definition of spam.
For example, while purchasing particular items online, you may be interested in receiving offers or information. After you’ve made your purchases, however, these offers can get annoying, especially when they’re still coming weeks and months later. With content filtering software running locally, you can initially accept offers and, after purchases, train the software to reject all such mail.
Apart from simply filtering spam, advanced content filtering can also perform functions such as sorting legitimate incoming mail into different folders, copying mail, or assigning certain mail types with custom colors. All family mail may be in red, while a newsletter you subscribe to may be assigned in green. With a look at the colors, you can tell what kind of mail is in your inbox.
