In WHM cPanel, managing email services is a critical aspect of maintaining a secure and reliable hosting environment. This knowledge base provides essential information about email blacklisting and handling spam reports.

Email Blacklisting

What is Email Blacklisting?

Email blacklisting, also known as email blocking, occurs when an email server or domain is identified as a source of spam or malicious emails. This can lead to emails from the blacklisted entity being rejected or marked as spam by receiving servers.

How to Check if Your Server is Blacklisted

1. Online Blacklist Checkers: Use online tools like MXToolBox, Spamhaus, or DNSBL.info to check if your server's IP or domain is listed on any blacklists.

2. cPanel's Email Deliverability Interface:

   • Log in to WHM.

   • Navigate to Email > Email Deliverability.

   • This tool provides an overview of the email status for your server.

Causes of Blacklisting

Common reasons for email blacklisting include:

• Sending unsolicited emails (spam).

• Poorly configured email servers.

• Compromised accounts sending spam.

• Malware or virus-infected accounts.

• High bounce rates and low engagement.

Remedies for Blacklisting

1. Identify and Resolve the Issue: Determine the cause of the blacklisting and take appropriate actions, such as removing compromised accounts, updating security measures, or resolving configuration issues.

2. Request Delisting: If your server is blacklisted, you can usually request removal from the blacklist through the blacklist provider's website. Provide evidence of corrective actions taken.

3. Monitor and Maintain: Regularly monitor the server's email traffic and take preventive measures to avoid future blacklisting.

Spam Reports

What are Spam Reports?

Spam reports are notifications from recipients or email providers alerting you that your email may be considered spam. These reports help maintain email sender reputation and prevent legitimate emails from being marked as spam in the future.

Handling Spam Reports in cPanel

1. Review the Report:

   • Carefully read the spam report to understand the recipient's concerns.

2. Identify the Cause:

   • Determine why the email was marked as spam. Common reasons include misleading subject lines, excessive use of images, or suspicious content.

3. Take Corrective Actions:

   • If the report highlights specific issues, address them promptly. For example, remove misleading content or update the email's formatting.

4. Ensure Opt-In Compliance:

   • Only send emails to recipients who have opted in to receive communication from you. Provide a clear and easy way to unsubscribe.

5. Test Deliverability:

   • Use tools like Mail Tester to evaluate your email's spam score and identify potential issues.

6. Maintain Good Practices:

   • Avoid using excessive capitalization, exclamation points, or misleading subject lines. Provide relevant and valuable content.

7. Use SPF and DKIM Records:

   • Implement SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) records to authenticate your emails.

Conclusion

Managing email blacklisting and handling spam reports is essential for maintaining a healthy email ecosystem. Regular monitoring, prompt action, and adhering to best practices are key to ensuring the deliverability of your emails. By following these guidelines, you can maintain a positive sender reputation and provide a reliable email service for your users.