Updated

It seems more common with junk mail these days that the “unsubscribe” function requires that you type in your e-mail address to confirm it. Is it OK to do this or is it just a phishing scam? And if it isn’t a good idea, how do you get rid of this type of mail?—Paul Nau, Nashville, TN

We don’t recommend that you type your e-mail into an unsubscribe box. It may well be used as a way to confirm that your address is valid, and most legitimate mailers will automatically enter your e-mail address on the unsubscribe page. Otherwise, just ignore the junk mail.

For more information, visit our Internet security guide.

—Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2007-2013 Consumers Union of U.S.

Copyright © 2005-2013 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc. No reproduction, in whole or in part, without written permission. Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this site.