That website is confusing; however, the line about “email attachments” I believe is meant to refer to the website contact form. I think it is attempting to explain why there is no way to attach files in that form. I know it is not an “email” and this message confused me too, but it is in fact common practice to send emails with attachments in the format specified.
“For security, we can’t receive email attachments” most likely means they don’t want to be opening files from random petitioners which could install malware on a government computer. So the exact method by which the file is sent wouldn’t especially matter. Note the next sentence (emphasis mine): “If you wish to send an attachment, please do so by mail.”
(I’m a security guy, and I agree with the California government that avoiding untrusted attachments is a good way to avoid malware. It’s true that lots of people open them, but lots of people have poor security practices in general. Another factor is that the California state government can expect to be targeted by more sophisticated cyberattacks than your average Joe or Jane.)
So yeah, I strongly recommend that you edit the instructions here and on your website ASAP.
That website is confusing; however, the line about “email attachments” I believe is meant to refer to the website contact form. I think it is attempting to explain why there is no way to attach files in that form. I know it is not an “email” and this message confused me too, but it is in fact common practice to send emails with attachments in the format specified.
“For security, we can’t receive email attachments” most likely means they don’t want to be opening files from random petitioners which could install malware on a government computer. So the exact method by which the file is sent wouldn’t especially matter. Note the next sentence (emphasis mine): “If you wish to send an attachment, please do so by mail.”
(I’m a security guy, and I agree with the California government that avoiding untrusted attachments is a good way to avoid malware. It’s true that lots of people open them, but lots of people have poor security practices in general. Another factor is that the California state government can expect to be targeted by more sophisticated cyberattacks than your average Joe or Jane.)
So yeah, I strongly recommend that you edit the instructions here and on your website ASAP.