What's the harm of giving a stranger your email address?

And it is extremely risky to open that email. Most likely it carries a malware payload that could take control of your computer. Perhaps it will encrypt your hard drive then they ask you for a payment in bitcoin for the key. Or perhaps they just install adware. read more

Malware Downloads. Most obviously, if you send them your email address they are almost certainly going to send you an email. Then you will have to come back here and ask if it is safe to open an email from a stranger who requested your address without explanation. And it is extremely risky to open that email. read more