Navigating the Latest Authentication Requirements for Bulk Email Senders

Introduction:

As of February 1st, new guidelines have been introduced for bulk email senders to enhance security measures. Major platforms like Google and Yahoo have implemented new security guidelines regarding email authentication measures to safeguard against spam, fraud, and phishing. Wondering if these changes impact you? If your business engages in email communications, the answer is yes. We, at Dovetail, aim to ensure that you are well-prepared for these adjustments. Should you have any questions, we are here to guide you and provide answers.

Overview:

The authentication of email messages sent from a domain is based on various records that can be set up or configured within that domain’s settings. These records play a crucial role in determining the level of authentication applied to ensure the legitimacy and security of email messages. It’s essential to ensure that your email account is equipped with DMARC, SPF, and DKIM where applicable.

To learn about these different records reference our Email Deliverability F.A.Q or continue reading below.

What is a DMARC policy?

Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance (DMARC) is a policy that a domain (or website) publishes in its public Domain Name System (DNS) to let a receiving mailbox provider know how email sent from that domain should be authenticated and whether it should be delivered to the spam folder or rejected if it fails that authentication.

Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance (DMARC) serves as a crucial policy published within a domain’s public Domain Name System (DNS). This policy communicates to receiving mailbox providers how emails from that domain should undergo authentication, determining whether they should be delivered, flagged as spam, or rejected if authentication fails.

All email senders must – Publish a DMARC Policy record.

The DMARC policy uses the Sender Policy Framework (SPF) and DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM) to determine the authenticity of an e-mail message.

What is a Sender Policy Framework (SPF)?

SPF is a validation system designed to prevent email spoofing by confirming that the sending mail server is authorized to send emails on behalf of a specific domain.

If e-mail is originating from the Dovetail Hosting environment, you need to add the following information to your SPF record:

include: netblocks.dovetailinternet.net

What is a DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM)?

DKIM adds a digital signature to outgoing emails, allowing the recipient’s email system to verify the message’s authenticity. It helps verify that its sender’s address hasn’t been forged (spoofed) and its message hasn’t been tampered with in transit.

Implications for Bulk Email Senders:

1. Improved Deliverability: Adhering to these new email authentication requirements enhances the reputation of bulk email senders, leading to improved deliverability rates. Emails that pass authentication checks are less likely to be flagged as spam, ensuring that they reach the intended recipients’ inboxes.
2. Enhanced Security: Implementing these authentication protocols strengthens the overall security of email communication, protecting both senders and recipients from malicious activities such as phishing and spoofing.

Conclusion:

Navigating these latest authentication requirements isn’t just about meeting standards; it’s a strategic move towards making your mass email sending more dependable and secure. Keep yourself updated, adjust accordingly, and make sure the shift to a safer email sending setup goes smoothly.