This guide will walk you through the steps to remove your IP from the SURBL blacklist and restore normal email functionality. We'll explore the reasons behind blacklistings, examine their impact on email deliverability, and outline a step-by-step app
What is SURBL Blacklist?
SURBL, or Spam URI Real-Time Blocklist(s), is a dynamic database designed to detect and block spam emails based on their embedded URLs. Unlike traditional filters that analyze full email content, SURBL specifically targets suspicious links, making it an integral part of a broader spam detection strategy rather than a standalone solution.
SURBL collects URL data from multiple sources, such as spam messages, user reports, and automated web crawling. When a URL is flagged as spam, associated emails may be blocked or marked accordingly. Many Email Service Providers (ESPs) and security systems leverage SURBL to strengthen spam detection, improve email deliverability, and mitigate risks like phishing and malware threats.
Types of SURBL listings
SURBL, or the Spam URI Real-Time Blocklist, is an extensive blacklist created to detect and block harmful Uniform Resource Identifiers (URIs) found in unsolicited emails. These URIs may lead to spam, phishing attacks, malware distribution, and other security threats. To enhance its effectiveness, SURBL classifies listings based on the nature of the detected URIs. Understanding these categories helps identify the specific risks that SURBL mitigates. Below are the primary types of SURBL listings:
- 🚫📧 Spam Domains: SURBL tracks domains linked to spam emails, identifying them as sources of unsolicited bulk messages with poor reputations in email deliverability and content quality. When an email includes URIs associated with these spam domains, SURBL detects them and initiates measures to flag or block the message
- 🔒🎭 Phishing Domains: Phishing is a deceptive tactic designed to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials and financial details, by masquerading as legitimate organizations. SURBL detects and catalogues domains frequently associated with phishing schemes. If an email contains URIs linked to these fraudulent sites, SURBL alerts the email server, helping to block potential threats and protect users from scams.
- 🦠🚨Malware Distribution Domains: Cybercriminals frequently exploit email to spread malware, including viruses, ransomware, and other harmful software. SURBL detects domains associated with malware distribution, flagging URIs linked to these sites. This enables email servers to take preventive measures, safeguarding recipients from potential infections.
- 💻⚠️ Exploit Kit Domains: Exploit kits are harmful tools that leverage software vulnerabilities to spread malware. SURBL tracks domains linked to these kits, flagging URIs in emails that direct to them. This allows email servers to block or quarantine suspicious messages, preventing potential security breaches for recipients.
- 🔗✨ URL Shorteners: URL shorteners help streamline lengthy web addresses, making them more convenient to share. However, cybercriminals exploit these services to disguise harmful links and bypass detection. SURBL monitors and flags malicious URLs used in email campaigns, regardless of the shortener service, enhancing protection against deceptive and harmful links.
How to remove your domain from the SURBL blacklist.
To request removal from a reputation set, please start with the the Lookup page and follow the instructions on the removal form.
Before submitting a removal request for the Cracked (CR), Phishing (PH), or Malware (MW) lists, it's crucial to fully secure your systems and eliminate any security vulnerabilities. This includes:
- 🗑️🔒 Removing malicious content – Ensure all phishing sites, cracked accounts, viruses, malware loaders, and trojan horses are completely deleted from your website and servers.
- 🛠️🔄 Updating and patching software – Fix unpatched operating systems, insecure PHP boards, outdated WordPress or Joomla installations, and any vulnerable third-party plugins.
- 🔐🗄️ Securing database and credentials – Address cracked SQL databases, weak FTP passwords, and password sniffers that could be exploited by attackers.
- 🔎🛡️ Performing a full security audit – If necessary, consult a cybersecurity expert to conduct a comprehensive audit on your website and the devices used to upload content.
- 🛡️🔍 Preventing future breaches – Without proper security measures, compromised systems may be exploited again, making ongoing monitoring and protection essential.
For more information about delisting in SURBL you can visit this link: https://www.surbl.org/lists.
