Hackers and spamming groups are always on the lookout for vulnerable and weak domains. With the malicious intent to use email domains that they are not authorized to use, they try to rick users and conduct phishing scams and other forms of cyber frauds, including data breaches, sending fake invoices, impersonating other accounts and ransomware spreading etc.
Organizations thus need to incorporate features in their cybersecurity frameworks to protect their email domains against hackers and avoid their brand names from being misused. In this regard, DMARC is an effective email authentication mechanism that protects an organization’s brand’s domain from hackers who may try to impersonate its brand and send emails through what may look like the organization’s domain address.
Let’s look at what it is and what it does.
We have established that DMARC is a component of cybersecurity and used by organizations to prevent their domain name from being misused by hackers. It stands for Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance and is a powerful tool for safeguarding the organization’s domain against spoofing.
A DMARC policy is implemented while deploying DMARC, which guides the email servers on how to treat the email and what to do after checking if the email has been passed by the SPF (Sender Policy Framework) or DKIM (Domain keys Identified Mail), which are also email authenticating mechanisms. DMARC policy outlines a set of rules to prevent hackers from using their domains.
Once verified by SPF or DKIM or both, the email is subjected to a DMARC check. It enables the organization to check all incoming emails according to DMARC records. If an email does not pass that test, it may be subjected to some actions/organizational policy.
The email is subjected to three kinds of policies which are determined on the basis of the organization’s risk tolerance perception. The email may be sent as a normal message with a warning. It is also included in the list of emails that did not pass the DMARC record check test.
Alternatively, the email may automatically be diverted to a quarantine section where it is approved manually before allowing delivery. The third option is that the email may be rejected right away, which is the ultimate purpose of using DMARC.
Why DMARC
DMARC can be regarded as an innovation in the field of anti-spoofing. It enables operators to easily identify valid and authentic emails and protect their domain name from unauthorized users who may want to use it for fraudulent activities, spamming or phishing.
If you are concerned about safeguarding your brand’s domain, you can install DMARC and be stress-free.
