Abstract: In a mail sending apparatus, an attached file generation unit generates an attached file in which an access method for a designated file is described. A mail tool attaches the attached file to a mail message to form mail data, and transmits it to a designated destination through a mail server. In a mail receiving apparatus, a mail reader extracts the attached file from the mail data received through a mail server. An attached file analysis unit analyzes the access method described in the attached file. A file reception unit accesses a file management/transmission tool in accordance with the access method to receive and display the designated file.