Listener Question - Why a scam email with no content?

I've received a scam email with no links or anything to click on.  Any chance you could phone me if you have a few minutes to discuss why I would get such an email?  I don't think I am in any danger. I'm just curious what benefit a scammer gets from this?

• My guess is that the email is a test to see if the address (yours) is valid before sending you other stuff.
  
• If a message is successfully received, then it can be tracked using receipt requests that the mailbox is valid.
  
• If the user then opens the email, they can assume the mailbox is active and monitored.  
  

Yes. you are 100% correct.  I have received a second email requesting help with a $gift card to assist someone with cancer (who I don't know).  Obviously a scam 🤣.
Is this worth reporting to a (?) government organisation?  If so, who / what would that be?
The scamwatch website has a reporting  mechanism. You can also report a phishing attack on Outlook according to Microsoft. I won't send you the link 🥴, just google "report phishing outlook".
Scammers may send emails with no links or content for several reasons:

• Testing Email Addresses: They might be checking if your email address is active and valid, to add it to their future spam lists.
  
• Harvesting Information: Even without links, they could be using hidden tracking pixels in the email to monitor if you open it, providing them with information about your email activity.
  
• Social Engineering Preparation: They might be laying the groundwork for a future scam, sending a seemingly innocuous email to establish a sense of familiarity before launching a more sophisticated attack.
  
•  Phishing Attempt: While less common, it's possible they're relying on the sender's name or subject line to trick you into replying or taking other actions that could compromise your security.
  

Regardless of the reason, it's crucial to exercise caution and never reply to or interact with suspicious emails, even if they seem harmless.