Email is a crucial communication tool for businesses, however, it’s also a prime target for cyberattacks, with email spoofing and phishing attempts constantly on the rise. These attacks not only damage your brand reputation but also pose significant security risks, potentially leading to data breaches and financial losses. 

This is where DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance) comes in. DMARC acts as a defence mechanism protecting your organisation from email impersonation and securing your email communication. But what exactly is DMARC, and why is it essential for your organisation? 

 

Understanding DMARC

Think of DMARC as a three-pronged approach to email security: 

Authentication

DMARC leverages existing protocols like SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) to verify the legitimacy of incoming emails. SPF checks if the sender’s server is authorised to send emails for your domain, while DKIM adds a digital signature to ensure the email hasn’t been tampered with. 

Policy

DMARC allows you to set a policy for what happens to emails that fail authentication. You can choose to quarantine, reject, or simply monitor these emails, preventing them from reaching inboxes and potentially compromising sensitive information. 

Reporting

DMARC provides valuable insights into email traffic. Receiving email servers can send reports about emails that fail authentication, helping you identify suspicious activity and potential security breaches. 

Why DMARC matters for organisations 

  1. Combats Email Spoofing and Phishing: DMARC makes it significantly harder for attackers to spoof your domain and launch phishing attacks, protecting your employees and customers from falling victim. 
  2. Enhances Brand Reputation: By preventing unauthorised use of your domain, DMARC safeguards your brand image and builds trust with recipients. 
  3. Improves Email Deliverability: Properly configured DMARC can improve email deliverability by ensuring legitimate emails from your domain reach inboxes without getting flagged as spam. 
  4. Boosts Security Posture: DMARC provides valuable insights into email traffic, helping you identify and address potential security vulnerabilities and suspicious activity. 

 

At Bridgeall, we understand the importance of email security. We offer expert guidance and support to help organisations implement DMARC effectively and protect their email communication. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate the world of DMARC.