I know what you’re thinking: “Three email addresses? That’s crazy!” But hear me out. While it might sound like a hassle, having multiple email accounts can significantly enhance your online security and digital life management.

The Disposable Email

This email address is your digital catch-all. Use it to sign up for those irresistible “get 20% off” offers, freebies, or anything where you suspect an influx of spam. It’s the email you willingly sacrifice to the spam gods. It’s likely to be compromised or sold, but it protects your primary accounts.

The Shopping or Subscription Email

This email is for those subscriptions you actually want to receive. This is where you park emails from retailers you like, online services you regularly use, and anything else that isn’t critical.  It’s a balance between convenience and security. While less risky than your disposable email, it’s still susceptible to some spam.

The Fortress Email

This is your sacred email address, reserved for highly sensitive information. This is your digital stronghold, reserved exclusively for financial institutions, healthcare providers, government agencies, and other high-security accounts. It’s the digital equivalent of a vault. By keeping your sensitive information separate, you significantly reduce the risk of a data breach compromising your financial or personal details.

Transitioning to Three Email Accounts

It’s easy to switch to a three-email address strategy. First, decide which of the three types your current account(s) will be. If you’re already getting a lot of spam emails in this account, use one of the new addresses for your Fortress email.

Next, create the other email accounts. I recommend not using the same platform you currently have so that if one platform goes down, you’ll still have access to your other emails. There are many free email services available, such as Gmail, iCloud, Yahoo, and Outlook.com. Even most Internet Service Providers like Comcast, Spectrum, or Verizon offer free email accounts.

After creating your new accounts, update your email address on the sites you’re signed up for. This will start sending your emails to the new accounts. Forward important emails to the new Fortress email account so that they are all kept together.

It’s not a good idea to use your work, school, or any other organizational email as one of your three email addresses. Because these email addresses are associated with the organization’s domain, the organization has the right to access and control the emails sent to and from those accounts. This means they can read, delete, and restrict access to your emails at any time, which is probably not something you would want to happen.

Remember: Regularly review and manage your email subscriptions to prevent inbox overload. Consider using email filters or labels to categorize and prioritize your messages.

Why go through all this trouble?

• Organization: Separating emails helps you manage your inbox more efficiently.

• Security: Protecting your sensitive information is paramount in today’s digital age.

• Peace of mind: Knowing your important emails are safe and sound can significantly reduce stress.
  

Managing multiple email accounts might seem daunting at first, but the benefits are substantial. A three-email strategy is a proactive step towards safeguarding your online identity and simplifying your email management. It’s an investment in your digital well-being. Remember, a little extra effort now can save you countless headaches in the future.

Do you have multiple personal email addresses? Share your experiences in the comments below!