DMARC stands for Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance. It is an email authentication protocol designed to prevent email spoofing and phishing attacks. DMARC works by allowing domain owners to specify policies that email receivers can use to verify the authenticity of incoming emails.
When an email is sent, the receiving server checks if the sender’s domain has a DMARC record. If a DMARC record exists, the server follows the specified policies to determine the legitimacy of the email. These policies can include instructions to pass, quarantine, or reject emails that fail authentication checks.
DMARC builds upon two existing email authentication protocols: SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail). SPF checks if the sender’s IP address is authorized to send emails on behalf of the domain, while DKIM verifies the email’s digital signature. DMARC combines these authentication methods and provides a framework for domain owners to manage the handling of failed authentication.
In addition to email authentication, DMARC also offers reporting capabilities. It enables domain owners to receive detailed reports from email receivers about the delivery and authentication results of their emails. These reports help identify any unauthorized use of their domain and assist in improving email deliverability.
By implementing DMARC, organizations can enhance email security, protect their brand reputation, and reduce the chances of email-based fraud and phishing attacks.
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