Email scams can wreak havoc on your business.
One effective tool to protect against them is DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance).
This article provides a comprehensive guide on setting up DMARC for your domain.
Don't worry if it sounds technical- we'll break it down into simple, manageable steps.
Understanding DMARC: What, Why and How
Purpose of DMARC
DMARC, which stands for Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance, is a type of email protocol. It works together with two other protocols, SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail), to authenticate email messages. DMARC plays a critical role in protecting businesses from email scams and spoofing.
Benefits of DMARC
There are numerous benefits of using DMARC for email verification:
Trust: DMARC helps build trust by ensuring that the messages sent from your domain are authentic.
Preventing phishing and spoofing: It acts as a shield against phishing and spoofing attacks that can harm your business reputation and customer trust.
DMARC Record Components
A typical DMARC record comprises several components that influence its function. There are three possible policies within a DMARC record. These include:
None policy (p=none): With this policy, no action is taken against emails that fail the DMARC check. However, ISPs will still provide reports on the failure.
Quarantine policy (p=quarantine): Emails that fail the DMARC check are delivered but are pushed to the spam or junk folder of the recipient's mailbox.
Reject policy (p=reject): Emails failing the DMARC check under this policy are not delivered to the recipient.
The record also contains tags like 'v', which identifies the record version; 'p', which outlines the policy; and 'rua', which provides reporting URI for aggregate reports. Each tag has a unique role in the DMARC record.
Step-by-Step Process to Create a DMARC Record
Before you start setting up DMARC, there are preparation steps you need to follow.
Firstly, you need to identify all the legitimate sources of mail for your domain. These could be your company's email server, third-party email services, and marketing platforms.
You also need to have the SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) already set up on your domain. These protocols help authenticate your emails, making it less likely for them to be flagged as spam.
Log in to your DNS Hosting provider's console. This is where you will create and manage your DMARC record.
Let's now move to creating your DMARC record.
Start by creating a new TXT record in your DNS. This text record is where you put your DMARC policy and it's what email receivers check to validate your emails.
For the hostname, enter "_dmarc.yourdomain.com" by replacing 'yourdomain.com' with your actual domain name.
For the value, you'll want to start with a basic DMARC policy. As an example, "v=DMARC1; p=none; rua=mailto:your@email.com" would be a good starting policy. This line of text contains three tags: 'v' indicating the version of DMARC, 'p' setting the policy to 'none' for initial testing, and 'rua' specifying the email address that will receive aggregate reports from email receivers.
Once you've completed the DMARC record, it's time to save it and ensure everything is working correctly.
Save the newly created DMARC record.
Run a DMARC Record Check. There are plenty of free tools online you can use to do this. Running a check will let you see if your DMARC record is valid and accessible.
Validate your DMARC setup. It's not enough to just set up DMARC; you need to verify that it's configured correctly and working as intended. This means checking the aggregate reports you receive at the email address specified in your 'rua' tag and making sure your emails are passing DMARC.
Dealing with Subdomains and Additional Domains
When it comes to DMARC, the setup can be a bit trickier for subdomains and additional domains. Let's go through it one at a time.
Subdomain DMARC Rules
By default, subdomains inherit the parent domain's DMARC policy. This means that if you have a DMARC policy set for "mybusiness.com", it will apply to all subdomains like "billing.mybusiness.com" or "support.mybusiness.com".
However, you might want to apply a different DMARC policy to your subdomains. To do this, you should create a separate DMARC record for each of your subdomains.
Additional Domains
If you have more than one domain for your business, you need to setup DMARC individually for each one. For example, if you have "mybusiness.com" and "mybiz.net", setting up DMARC for "mybusiness.com" won't cover "mybiz.net".
To manage DMARC records for additional domains, you have to follow the same process explained before in the guide. Remember, every domain needs its own DMARC record in DNS. However, if you are using identical policies, you could use the same DMARC value for multiple domains.
In conclusion, managing DMARC for subdomains and additional domains requires careful attention. Make sure each domain has the right DMARC setup to keep your email deliverability high and your business protected against email spoofing.
Checking DNS with a DMARC Analyzer
Ensuring the functioning of your newly set up DMARC record is crucial. This is where a DMARC Analyzer comes into play.
Using DMARC Analyzer
A DMARC Analyzer is like a health-check tool for your domain's email security. It can scan your DNS records, specifically the ones related to email authentication. To use it, follow the analyzer's prompts, usually requiring you to enter your domain name.
The tool captures and evaluates DMARC reports sent by mail servers. It identifies problems, helping you avoid potential email delivery issues. These could range from misconfigured records to unauthorized senders.
Propagation Time
Have you made changes to your DMARC record? You must understand, then, that these changes don't take effect immediately. This delay is known as propagation time. It's when DNS servers around the world update their cached information.
Propagations times vary. They can be as quick as an hour or stretch to 48 hours. This duration hinge on the TTL (Time to Live) value in your DNS record.
To check if the DMARC record is working, be patient. Wait for the propagation time to pass. Then, you can verify by using a DMARC Record Check or sending test emails from a domain not authorized in your DMARC record. If set up correctly, you should see these emails get blocked or flagged based on your DMARC policy.
Remember, accuracy in DMARC setup is better than haste. Proper verification helps avoid false positives. It ensures genuine emails aren't mistakenly marked as spam or phish.
Editing Your Domain’s DNS Records
To help guard your business from email scams, you need to edit your domain's DNS records. Let's talk about how you can do this.
Accessing DNS Records
You might feel uneasy fiddling around with DNS records. It's serious stuff, and making a mistake can cause trouble. But don't worry - you can handle it.
Firstly, to access DNS records, you need to log into your DNS hosting provider.
There are variations, depending on your host. But usually, you can find the DNS records under a section named something like "DNS Management," "Domain Manager," or "Advanced Settings."
Modifying DNS Records
Once you've found your DNS records, you're ready to make changes. Follow these steps:
Choose the DNS record you want to edit.
Click on the "Edit" button.
Make your changes.
Finally, click "Save" or "Update".
Your DNS records could be in different places. Some common locations are:
Your web hosting control panel (like cPanel or Plesk)
Your domain registrar dashboard (like GoDaddy, BlueHost, or Namecheap)
The platform where you built your website (like Wix or Squarespace)
Remember: Always double-check your changes before saving them. This way, you can avoid unwanted errors.
Take your time, and you'll do fine.
Implementing DMARC Protocol on Microsoft 365
When it comes to implementing the DMARC protocol on the Microsoft 365 platform, you will find a slight difference between the handling of inbound and outbound mail.
Inbound Mail
In the case of inbound mail, the good news is that there's little work for you. Microsoft 365 already has built-in support for DMARC. So, no action is required from your side for setting up DMARC for receiving messages.
Outbound Mail
However, the approach is different for outbound mail. To set up DMARC for outbound mail, manual setup is necessary. This applies if you have a custom domain or use on-premises Exchange servers. Here are the steps:
Identify your outbound mail servers: Figure out which servers send messages on behalf of your domain.
Configure SPF: Once you know your mail servers, set up an SPF record in your DNS records. This record should include all the servers identified in step one.
Set up DKIM: Create a DKIM signature for outgoing mail from your domain. This might require help from your email provider.
Create DMARC record: Finally, create a DMARC DNS record with the policy of your choice, and include an email address where you can receive reports.
Remember to be patient! It may take some time for these changes to propagate throughout the internet. So, don't worry if you don't see immediate effects.
The above steps will ensure that the emails you send are authenticated and less likely to be flagged as spam by email receivers. Thus, implementing DMARC is a great way to build and maintain the trust of your email subscribers.
Best Practices for Implementing DMARC
Implementing DMARC can seem daunting, but with some best practices, it becomes a manageable task. Here are three key strategies to simplify the process:
Gradual Implementation
When you begin your DMARC journey, start slow. Establish a DMARC record in the monitoring mode first. This won't affect your email flow, but it allows you to collect data. You can analyze this data to understand and fix issues.
Moving to Strict Policies
Once you're confident, move to stricter policies. Initially, set your DMARC policy to 'quarantine'. This shifts emails that fail DMARC to the spam folder. Finally, switch to the 'reject' policy. This blocks failing emails altogether. However, only move to this step when you're sure that your legitimate emails won't get blocked.
Handling Outbound and Inbound Email
With DMARC, you need to manage both outbound and inbound emails. When an outbound email fails DMARC, identify its source. Check if it is a legitimate source and then align it. For failed inbound emails, verify their authenticity. If they're genuine, consider adjusting your DMARC policy or whitelist them.
Remember, DMARC implementation is not a 'set and forget' process. Regular review and adjustment are necessary to ensure it works effectively.
Troubleshooting DMARC Implementation
Troubleshooting DMARC can sometimes appear complicated. Let's break it down into manageable parts.
MX Records
MX records, or Mail Exchanger records, are crucial for the successful enforcement of DMARC. These records in your DNS (Domain Name System) must be set up accurately for DMARC to work as intended. If they're not, DMARC may not function correctly.
One key thing to remember is to make Exchange Online Protection (EOP) the primary MX record for DMARC validation. EOP is a cloud-based filtering service that protects your organization against spam and malware. Having EOP as your primary MX record ensures that your email messages are protected and verified by DMARC.
Handy Resources
The internet is filled with a variety of resources to assist you in troubleshooting your DMARC implementation. Here are a few that you might find handy:
DMARC.org is a great place to start. It's filled with educational content and guides on DMARC, including how to troubleshoot common issues.
The Google Admin Help Center has detailed instructions specific to the Google platform.
Microsoft also offers online help with their article on troubleshooting DMARC fails for Office 365.
Remember, DMARC is a powerful tool that aids in protecting your domain from spoofing, spam, and phishing attempts. Ensuring it is correctly implemented is key in maintaining this protection. If you run into problems, don't hesitate to use these resources or seek professional help.
Turning Off DMARC or Deleting Record
DMARC Disabling Risks
Deciding to switch off DMARC for your domain might seem like an easy option. However, this path carries heavy risks.
Risks are high. When you disable DMARC, you open the floodgates for spam, spoofing and phishing attacks. These email scams can harm not only your business's reputation, but also its bottomline.
Remember, DMARC is your shield in the world of emails. Without it, your users' trust can erode quickly. This will leave you unprotected against malicious emails.
Steps to Delete Record
Deleting your DMARC record should be your last resort. But if you've decided to bite the bullet, here are the steps:
Log into your DNS hosting provider – This could be the site where you bought your domain.
Go to the DNS settings – Look for a section called "DNS Records" or something similar.
Find your DMARC record – It's usually a TXT record that starts with "_dmarc".
Click 'Delete'– Follow your provider's instructions to delete the record.
However, keep in mind that there are better alternatives to completely turning off DMARC.
For instance, setting your DMARC policy to 'none' helps monitor the situation. You'll receive reports about any failed DMARC checks without affecting your mail flow.
This middle ground lets you iron out kinks while still keeping an eye on potential threats. So before jumping to remove DMARC, try using it to your advantage first!
Recap of the importance of DMARC and how it can protect your business from email scams
Let's recall why DMARC is crucial for your business. It's a powerful tool that provides added layers of security for your email systems. This helps in stopping scams such as email spoofing and phishing attempts.
DMARC boosts trust in your domain. When customers see your email, they know it's genuinely from you. This builds credibility and keeps your brand reputation safe.
Don't underestimate the importance of DMARC. Email scams are common and can have a significant impact on business operations.
Encouragement to implement DMARC step by step
Setting up DMARC might seem complex. It's OK to feel overwhelmed. It's a meticulous process, but every step is crucial in ensuring maximum security.
Start slow. Begin with a monitoring-mode record to gather insights. Then, gradually move to stricter policies. Don't skip any steps. Be patient with the process.
Remember, every effort you put into setting up DMARC is an investment in your business’s online safety.
Direct readers to ask questions or seek help if needed
At times, you might encounter issues while implementing DMARC. Don't panic if things get confusing.
You can always reach out to experts in the field or make good use of online platforms that offer guidance. There are forums, tutorials, toolkits and free resources designed to assist you through the process.
Make sure all your questions get answered before proceeding to the next step.
In conclusion, setting up DMARC might seem tough, but with patience and the right information, it is manageable. Remember, it's about keeping your business safe and your brand credible. Once properly established, DMARC will serve as a robust defence against email scams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of businesses can benefit from DMARC?
All types of businesses, regardless of their size or industry, can benefit from DMARC. It helps protect your business from email scams, phishing, and spoofing by authenticating the emails sent from your domain. This ensures that only valid emails are delivered to your recipients, thus building trust in your brand.
Does implementing DMARC mean I won't receive any spam emails anymore?
The main purpose of DMARC is to prevent your domain from being used for email scams, not to filter incoming spam to your mailbox. While implementing DMARC can reduce the number of spam emails you receive, it does not guarantee complete elimination.
Can I use DMARC without SPF and DKIM?
No, DMARC requires both SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) to function. Both these protocols are integral to the email authentication process that DMARC enforces.
Should I set DMARC policy to 'reject' right away?
No, it's recommended to start with a 'none' policy, which allows you to monitor the results without affecting your email flow. Once you're confident that your legitimate emails pass DMARC, you can then shift to stricter policies like 'quarantine' or 'reject'.
Are there any risks associated with deleting DMARC record?
Yes, without DMARC, your domain is not protected against email scams like spoofing and phishing. It also affects your brand trust as emails from your domain could be deemed unverified and hence unreliable or even dangerous.
Do I need to create DMARC for each of my business' domains?
Yes, it's vital to create and manage DMARC records for all your business domains to ensure complete email security across your organization.
Can I use a DMARC analyzer to troubleshoot propagation issues?
While a DMARC analyzer is mostly used to scrutinize DNS records and identify issues, it may not necessarily help in troubleshooting propagation issues. Propagation time is a characteristic aspect of DNS and varies based on the TTL (Time to Live) set for your records.
Do I need to configure MX records for DMARC?
Yes, correct configuration of MX (Mail Exchange) records is vital for DMARC enforcement to work. In particular, making EOP (Exchange Online Protection) the primary MX record is often essential to DMARC validation.
Can DMARC help with my business' email deliverability?
Absolutely! By implementing DMARC, you authenticate emails sent from your domain, which can enhance your domain's reputation among mailbox providers. This can increase the chances of your emails reaching the inbox instead of being marked as spam or blocked.
