You have prepared your automations, crafted various messages, integrated your CRM tools, and you’re ready to launch. Then came a very unexpected, hair-rising plot twist:  you found all of your emails bouncing or landing on spam folders. This is a clear indication that your messages are deemed harmful or nuances, which signal that your domain has been blacklisted.

Fixing this is not just about getting out of spam folders. It’s also making sure that your reputation is reinstated and restored. So your messages land on the intended inbox. 

What is a blacklist?

A blacklist is a regulatory tool used across various digital platforms to restrict or block entities deemed to pose security risks or engage in unethical behavior. In the context of the internet, blacklists are commonly used to manage domains and IP addresses associated with spam, malware, phishing, and other harmful activities. These lists are maintained by various organizations, including email service providers, internet service providers (ISPs), and cybersecurity firms, to protect users from potential threats. When a domain is blacklisted, it can suffer significant setbacks, such as email deliverability issues and reduced website traffic, affecting overall digital communication and business operations. 

To determine if your domain is blacklisted, utilize online tools that check against various blacklist databases. A popular tool for this purpose is MXToolbox. It scans your domain against numerous blacklists and provides a report on which ones have flagged your domain.

What are the causes for a domain to be blacklisted?

Domains are typically blacklisted due to activities associated with spam, malware distribution, or other security risks.

Common reasons include:

Email Spam: Sending unsolicited bulk emails can quickly lead to being blacklisted.Malware: Hosting malware or links to malicious software can result in a domain being blocked.Phishing: Engaging in phishing attempts, where sensitive information is illicitly solicited, will also lead to blacklisting.Technical Errors: Misconfigured email settings or DNS problems can inadvertently cause a domain to be seen as a source of spam or malicious activity​.

Here are the steps on how to get off a blacklist:

Using MxToolbox, identify the blacklist database that listed your domain.Identify the reason for the listing. These can include a compromised server, wrong email practices, or incorrect configurations.Based on the blacklist database, address the main cause and then rectify the issue. If the main cause is spam-related, scrutinize your content and make sure it aligns with best practices. In the case of high volume emails, adjust the frequency and make sure it doesn’t exceed the ideal number of email sends per day. If it’s about the wrong configuration, use this free SPF record generator tool.  After that, craft a removal request. Each blacklist has its own removal process, often detailed on their respective websites. Follow these guidelines closely to have your domain delisted​. 

Here are the details to include in your written request: 

acknowledgement of the reason for listing.detailed action plan you’ve implemented to solve the issue.statement of commitment in maintaining best practices.

5. After being removed, closely monitor your email activities. Make sure compliance is maintained. Regularly check your domains against blacklists to catch it in real time.

To prevent future blacklisting, incorporate the following tools and practices:

Email Authentication: Implement SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records to help prevent email spoofing.Regular Security Monitoring: Tools like Sucuri can help monitor and protect your website from malware and vulnerabilities, reducing the risk of blacklisting​. 

Conclusion

It’s wise to conduct regular checks to see if your domain is blacklisted. For businesses relying heavily on email and web presence, checking monthly—or even more frequently depending on email volume and security incidents—is advisable. Understanding and rectifying the causes of blacklisting, such as securing servers and optimizing email practices, are fundamental steps towards delisting. Additionally, implementing preventive measures like robust email authentication protocols and regular security audits helps safeguard against future blacklisting.