What is DMARC?

DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance) is an email authentication protocol that helps prevent domain spoofing and phishing attacks. It builds upon SPF and DKIM to provide better email security and policy enforcement.

Why is DMARC Important?

• Prevents unauthorized senders from impersonating your domain.
• Improves email deliverability and trust with ISPs.
•  Provides visibility into email authentication failures.
•  Helps protect your brand reputation.

Without DMARC:

• Your domain is vulnerable to phishing and spoofing attacks.
• ISPs may reject or flag your emails as suspicious.
• You won't receive reports on authentication failures.

How to Set Up DMARC?

1. Ensure SPF and DKIM are Configured:
   • DMARC requires both SPF and DKIM to be set up correctly.
   • Verify SPF and DKIM using tools like MXToolbox.
2. Access DNS Settings:
   •  Log in to your domain provider (GoDaddy, Cloud flare, Name cheap, etc.).
3. Create a DMARC TXT Record:
   •  In your DNS settings, add a new TXT record:
     •  Name: _dmarc.yourdomain.com
     •  Value: v=DMARC1; p=none; rua=mailto:dmarc-reports@yourdomain.com;
     •  Modify the policy (p=none) to p=quarantine or p=reject once monitoring is complete.
4. Save and Verify:
   • Save the record and wait for DNS propagation.
   •  Use a DMARC checker tool like DMARC Analyzer to validate.

DMARC Policy Levels

• p=none: Only monitors authentication failures without blocking emails.
• p=quarantine: Emails that fail authentication are sent to spam.
• p=reject: Emails that fail authentication are completely blocked.

Troubleshooting DMARC Issues

• Emails Failing DMARC? Ensure SPF and DKIM are properly set up.
• No DMARC Reports? Check that your reporting email is correctly set up and active.
• High DMARC Failures? Review email sources to ensure all legitimate senders are authorized.