Sending an email might seem straightforward, but it's not, especially if you’re a marketer or SDR who sends marketing or cold emails daily. You might write excellent emails, but still may encounter high bounce rates and low opens. A major reason why this happens might be because your domain or IP is blacklisted.

When you send emails using a blacklisted IP or domain, it can trigger alarms on lists like RBLs (Real-time Blackhole Lists) or DNSBLs (DNS-based Blackhole Lists). These lists are like gatekeepers on the internet—they aim to block spam and protect users from malicious emails.

So, what to do if your IP or domain is blacklisted? Or, how do you delist your domain from an email blacklist?

In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of identifying if your domain is blacklisted and the precise steps to take in order to get it removed. 

Remove Your Domain From A Blacklist in 4 Easy Steps 

Landing on an email blacklist is not the goal of any marketer, but despite your best efforts, sometimes you can land on one.  The first thing to understand here is that it is not a dead end. You have to be patient and carefully take all necessary steps needed for the blacklist removal. 

Let’s understand the blacklist removal process in 4 simple steps.

Step 1: Perform a Domain Blacklist Check to identify the blacklist and the reasons

The first step in delisting your domain from an email blacklist is to determine if you are actually blacklisted. 

Tools like Smartlead's blacklist checker can help with this process. 

• Simply go to Smartlead’s Domain/IP Blacklist checker tool. 
• Enter the domain or IP you need to check and click on Look-Up.

You will get the complete analysis within a few seconds on the screen, like shown below:

It's advised to use multiple blacklist checking services to cross-verify the results, as different services may have varying criteria and listings. 

Once you've identified that your domain is indeed blacklisted, the next crucial step is to understand why. 

Many blacklists provide specific error codes or reasons for blacklisting. Common reasons include sending spam-like content, having a compromised server, or even being incorrectly flagged due to shared hosting issues. Understanding the reason will guide your next actions effectively.

Sending Spam-like Content:

• Your domain may have been flagged for sending out emails that appear to be spam or contain content that triggers spam filters.
• This can include unsolicited bulk emails, deceptive subject lines, or content that violates spam regulations.

Compromised Server:

• If your email server has been compromised by hackers, it could be used to send spam without your knowledge.
• Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in email servers to send out mass emails, leading to your domain being blacklisted.

Incorrectly Flagged Due to Shared Hosting Issues:

• If you're on a shared hosting service, another user sharing the same IP address may engage in spammy activities.
• This can result in the entire IP address or domain being blacklisted, affecting all users sharing the same resources.

Step 2: Address and Resolve Issues Promptly

After identifying the reasons for your domain being blacklisted, it's imperative to address and fix these issues before proceeding with the delisting process. 

Take this step seriously, as simply requesting delisting without resolving the underlying problems can lead to repeated blacklisting. 

It is also important to note that once your domain is blacklisted and you do not take effective measures to delist it, eventually your IP too may be flagged. 

Step 3: Send blacklist removal request 

When submitting a removal request for email blacklists, it's important to understand that the process can vary significantly based on the type of blacklist and the policies of the listing organization. 

Major email blacklists and Real-Time Blackhole Lists (RBLs), such as Spamhaus, SpamCop, and Barracuda, each have their own procedures and criteria for delisting. 

Some may require a simple removal request through their website or email, while others may have specific forms or verification processes.

Below we have shared a list of popular RBLs and how to delist from each one of them.

a) Delisting from Spamhaus

Spamhaus is one of the most recognized and stringent email blacklists. If your domain is listed on Spamhaus, you'll need to follow their specific delisting process. This typically involves:

• Visiting the Spamhaus website and checking the listing details.

Spam Filters

• Addressing the issues that caused the listing, such as stopping spamming activities, securing your email servers, and ensuring compliance with their policies.
• Requesting delisting through Spamhaus's website and providing evidence that the issues have been resolved.

b) Delisting from Barracuda

Barracuda maintains its own blacklist and reputation system. To delist from Barracuda:

• Visit the Barracuda Central website and check your domain's reputation.
• If listed, investigate the reasons and take corrective actions, such as removing any spammy content or securing your email infrastructure.
• Submit a delisting request through Barracuda's delisting portal, providing necessary details and evidence of corrective actions taken.

c) Delisting from SpamCop

SpamCop automatically handles blocking and unblocking of IP addresses. If SpamCop continues to receive reports of spam originating from the networks you are responsible for, those networks will remain listed. However, if no further reports are received, SpamCop will automatically delist your IP address after 24 hours.

It's important to note that if the reports received by SpamCop relate only to web-hosting for the spammer, they do not count towards the blocking list. SpamCop's email filters specifically consider complaints related to spam sourcing.

If you have recently closed an open relay on your network or removed a botnet infection, it is advisable to check and possibly notify other blocking systems in use, such as Spamhaus CBL (Composite Blocking List), but only if they have indeed detected and listed your server.

d) SURBL

SURBL (Spam URI Real-time Blocklists) focuses on detecting spam based on URLs included in email messages. If your domain or URL is listed on SURBL, you can request delisting by:

• Visiting the SURBL website and searching for your domain or URL.

• Reviewing the details of the listing to understand why you were listed.
• Correcting the issue that caused the listing (such as removing malicious URLs or correcting DNS records).
• Sending a delisting request via the contact form or email address provided on the SURBL website, including relevant details and proof of correction.

f) Microsoft 

For Microsoft 365's delisting process from their blocked senders list, you can use their delist portal. Here's how the process generally works:

Microsoft 365 uses a blocked senders list to safeguard users from spam, spoofing, and phishing threats. If your IP address is flagged as a potential risk to their service, it may be added to this list to prevent email communication with Microsoft 365 organizations.

To request removal from the blocked senders list:

1. Visit the Microsoft 365 delist portal.
2. Follow the instructions provided to submit a delisting request.
3. Provide necessary details, such as your IP address and any relevant information regarding the removal request.
4. Microsoft will review your request and take appropriate action based on their delisting policies.

For more detailed information and to access the delist portal, you can visit Microsoft's official delist portal.

This portal will guide you through the steps necessary to request removal from Microsoft 365's blocked senders list effectively.

Other Blacklists

Each blacklist may have its own delisting procedures and requirements. It's important to:

• Check the specific blacklist's website for delisting instructions.
• Follow their guidelines meticulously, which often include providing evidence of remedial actions and compliance with email best practices.
• Monitor your domain's reputation post-delisting to ensure continued compliance and avoid future listings.

Step 4: Take Preventive Measures 

Once your domain is successfully delisted, it's essential to implement preventive measures to avoid future blacklisting. 

This includes maintaining a clean email list, using authentication methods like SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail), regularly monitoring your email sending practices, and promptly addressing any reports of abuse or spam. 

Let’s talk about each one of them in detail:

‍a) Maintain a Clean Email List

Regularly clean your email list by removing invalid or inactive email addresses.

Implement double opt-in procedures to ensure subscribers genuinely want to receive your emails.

Honor unsubscribe requests promptly to reduce the risk of recipients marking your emails as spam.

b) Use Authentication Methods

Implement SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) to authenticate your email messages.

Ensure that your DNS records are correctly configured to reflect these authentication mechanisms.

Consider implementing DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance) to monitor and enforce email authentication policies.

c) Monitor Email Sending Practices

Regularly monitor your email sending practices to detect any anomalies or signs of abuse.

Use email analytics to track engagement metrics and adjust your email campaigns accordingly.

Be vigilant for any reports of abuse or spam and address them promptly to mitigate potential blacklisting risks.

d) Secure Your Email Infrastructure

Ensure that your email servers are secure and up-to-date with the latest security patches.

Implement strong password policies and consider using two-factor authentication (2FA) for email accounts.

Monitor for unauthorized access or suspicious activity that could indicate a compromise.

e) Educate and Train Staff

Educate employees on email security best practices, including recognizing phishing attempts and avoiding common pitfalls.

Conduct regular training sessions to reinforce the importance of maintaining a reputable email sending reputation.

Establish clear policies and procedures for handling customer data and email communications to minimize risks.

e) Engage in Responsible Email Marketing

Avoid purchasing email lists or using questionable sources for acquiring email addresses.

Follow best practices for email marketing, such as including a clear opt-out mechanism and respecting recipients' preferences.

Segment your email list to send targeted and relevant content, which can improve engagement and reduce the likelihood of spam complaints.

f) Monitor and Respond to Feedback

Monitor feedback loops and spam reports provided by email service providers or blacklist administrators.

Respond promptly to any complaints or issues raised by recipients to prevent escalation.

Use feedback to continuously improve your email practices and maintain a positive sender reputation.

Winding-up

Effectively managing and delisting your domain from email blacklists is a critical aspect of maintaining smooth communication and safeguarding your online reputation. 

By following the systematic steps outlined in this guide—checking for blacklisting, addressing issues promptly, and implementing preventive measures—you can navigate the complexities of email blacklists with confidence. 

By staying vigilant and responsive, you not only ensure the delivery of your important communications but also uphold the trust and reliability of your domain in the digital realm.

FAQs

1. What should I do if I discover my domain is blacklisted?

If you find that your domain is blacklisted, the first step is to identify the specific blacklist(s) where your domain is listed. 

Once identified, review the reasons for blacklisting and take immediate action to address any issues. 

This typically involves fixing security vulnerabilities, removing spammy content, and following the delisting procedures outlined by the respective blacklist.

2. How long does it take to get delisted from an email blacklist? 

The time it takes to get delisted varies depending on the blacklist and the severity of the issue. 

Some blacklists offer automated delisting processes that can resolve within hours, while others may require manual review, which could take several days. 

It's essential to follow the delisting instructions carefully and provide all necessary evidence of corrective actions to expedite the process.

3. Can I prevent my domain from being blacklisted in the future? 

Yes, you can take preventive measures to reduce the risk of your domain being blacklisted. 

Implement email authentication protocols like SPF, DKIM, and DMARC, maintain a clean email list, regularly monitor your email sending practices for anomalies, and educate your team on email security best practices. 

Proactive management and adherence to email marketing guidelines can significantly mitigate the risk of future blacklisting.

4. What are some common reasons for domains being blacklisted? 

Domains are often blacklisted for sending spam-like content, having a compromised server that sends out spam, being incorrectly flagged due to shared hosting issues, or not adhering to email marketing regulations. 

It's crucial to monitor your email practices closely and address any issues promptly to avoid being blacklisted.

5. Can I check if my domain is blacklisted on multiple blacklists simultaneously? 

Yes, there are several online tools and services that allow you to check if your domain is listed on multiple blacklists simultaneously. 

These tools can provide comprehensive reports showing which blacklists have listed your domain and the reasons for listing. 

It's advisable to use multiple tools for cross-verification to ensure accuracy.

6. What should I do if my delisting request is denied? 

If your delisting request is denied, carefully review the feedback provided by the blacklist administrator. 

Address any additional concerns or issues raised, and ensure that all necessary corrective actions have been taken. You may need to re-submit your delisting request with additional evidence or clarification to demonstrate compliance with the blacklist's policies. 

If necessary, seek assistance from a professional email deliverability consultant for further guidance.