How to Address Domain Blacklisting Due to Spam Activity

What Causes Domain Blacklisting?

1. Compromised Email Accounts: Unauthorized access to one or more accounts in your domain leading to spam emails being sent.
2. Malware or Phishing: Emails containing malicious links or phishing attempts flagged by the email provider’s filters.
3. Bulk Email Sending: Sending large volumes of emails within a short period, especially to unverified or invalid recipients.
4. Poor Email Practices: Using shared lists, outdated contacts, or sending promotional content without consent.

Consequences of Being Blacklisted

1. Email Suspension: Your email service provider may suspend outgoing email functionality to prevent further damage.
2. Blocked Communication: Customers, partners, and vendors won’t receive emails from your domain, affecting critical operations.
3. Damage to Reputation: Blacklisting can harm your business’s credibility and email deliverability rates.

Steps to Resolve the Issue

1. Identify the Source
   
   • Check all email accounts for unauthorized access or unusual activity.
   • Review your email logs for bulk or suspicious outgoing emails.
2. Scan for Malware
   
   • Use antivirus software to check devices connected to your email accounts.
   • Ensure all systems are clean and secure before proceeding.
3. Contact Your Email Service Provider
   
   • Reach out to Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace support to report the issue.
   • Request assistance in delisting your domain and restoring outgoing email functionality.
4. Update Email Security Measures
   
   • Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all users.
   • Enforce strong password policies.
   • Configure SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records to improve email security.
5. Educate Your Team
   
   • Conduct cybersecurity training to help employees identify phishing and spam attempts.
   • Encourage vigilance when opening or responding to suspicious emails.

Prevent Future Issues

• Regularly update contact lists to avoid sending emails to invalid addresses.
• Monitor email activity and set limits for bulk email sending.
• Work with a managed IT services provider to ensure your systems are protected and compliant.

Need Help? Contact TeckPath