E-mail attachments allow files like documents and images to be sent along with an e-mail message, providing a simple way to share files privately with recipients. While attachments are useful for sharing important files, they can pose security risks and privacy issues depending on the file type. Common file formats vary in their editability, compatibility across platforms, security, size, and whether they require proprietary software, with plain text and PDF generally being more secure and free options.

1. -6000757334885-409575-1418590<br />E-mail attachment is a computer file sent along with an e-mail message. One or more files can be attached to any email message, and be sent along with it to the recipient. This is typically used as a simple method to share documents and images. <br />Use of Attachments<br />E-mail attachments is use to send images and other small files to other people. It is useful for emailing because you can send important files privately to the person you want to send it to. An e-mail attachment is for sending files and not messages.<br />Here is a table about security risks, privacy compromises, and hidden costs inherent in email attachments:<br />Email Attachment File Types: Pros and ConsFormatEditable?Cross Platform?Secure?CompactProprietaryAdvanced Formatting?PermanentCostPlain Text ASCII (TXT)YesYesYesYesNoNoYesFreeHyperText Mark-up Language (HTML,HTM)YesYesVariably YesNoYesNoFreePortable Document Format (PDF)NoYesMostlyYesYesYesLargelyFreeRich Text Format (RTF)YesPartlyYesYesYesSomeYes>$5Word Document (DOC)YesNoNoNoYesYesNo>$20<br />Source: http://josephhall.org<br />