Why do my emails go to spam?
Emails go to spam when missing SPF, DKIM, or DMARC authentication, or when sent from blacklisted servers.
Detailed Answer
Emails land in spam folders due to missing email authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC), poor sender reputation, blacklisted IP addresses, spam-like content patterns, or low engagement rates.
Primary causes:
- Missing authentication - No SPF, DKIM, or DMARC records configured
- Failed authentication - SPF hardfail or DKIM signature mismatch
- Blacklisted servers - Mail server IP on public blocklists (Spamhaus, SURBL)
- Poor sender reputation - High bounce rates, spam complaints, or low engagement
- Content triggers - Spam keywords, excessive links, suspicious attachments
- Technical issues - Missing reverse DNS (PTR), invalid HELO/EHLO, rate limit violations
How to fix:
- Configure SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records correctly
- Monitor blacklist status and request delisting if needed
- Maintain list hygiene (remove bounces, honor unsubscribes)
- Avoid spam trigger words and excessive promotional content
- Use authenticated sending domains with proper PTR records
- Warm up new IP addresses gradually
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Scan Your DomainRelated Questions
What is SPF, DKIM, and DMARC?
SPF, DKIM, and DMARC are email authentication standards that verify sender identity and prevent email spoofing.
How to test email deliverability?
Test email deliverability by checking SPF/DKIM/DMARC authentication, monitoring blacklist status, and sending test emails to seed accounts.
What is an email blacklist?
An email blacklist is a database of IP addresses or domains known for sending spam, used by mail servers to filter unwanted email.