How to Set Up DMARC to Protect Your Domain from Email Spoofing

In today's digital landscape, protecting your domain from email spoofing is crucial. By setting up the correct MX records for your mail, you can prevent bad actors from using your domain in phishing campaigns. Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance (DMARC) helps authenticate legitimate email by leveraging Domain Keys Identified Mail (DKIM) and Sender Policy Framework (SPF).

Below, we’ll guide you through the universal procedure to configure DMARC for your domain and avoid spoofing.

What is DMARC?

DMARC is an email authentication protocol designed to give email domain owners the ability to protect their domain from unauthorized use, such as phishing and email spoofing. It works by validating email against established DKIM and SPF standards, ensuring that only legitimate emails are delivered to recipients.

Why is DMARC Important?

Prevent Email Spoofing: Stops cybercriminals from sending emails that appear to come from your domain.
Improve Email Deliverability: Ensures that your legitimate emails reach their intended recipients.
Enhance Domain Reputation: Protects your brand's reputation by preventing malicious actors from misusing your domain.

How to Configure DMARC for Your Domain

Step 1: Access Your Domain Registrar’s DNS Records

Begin by logging into your domain registrar's control panel. Navigate to the DNS management area, usually found within the domain settings.

Step 2: Locate the Option to Add a New Record

In the DNS management section, look for the option to add a new DNS record. Click on “Add Record.”

Step 3: Select the Record Type

Choose 'TXT' as the record type, since DMARC policies are added as TXT records within your domain's DNS.

Step 4: Configure the DMARC Record Values

Enter the specifics for your DMARC record, following this format:

v=DMARC1: Specifies the version of DMARC.
p=none: Policy for organizational domain (none, quarantine, or reject).
rua=mailto-domain: Address to which aggregate reports are sent.
ruf=mailto@domain: Address to which forensic reports are sent.
sp=none: Policy for subdomains (none, quarantine, or reject).
adkim=r: Alignment mode for DKIM (relaxed or strict).
aspf=r: Alignment mode for SPF (relaxed or strict).

Ensure accuracy in the format and values to effectively implement DMARC.

Monitoring and Adjusting Your DMARC Policy

After configuring your DMARC record, it’s essential to monitor its performance. Use the reports sent to your specified email addresses to analyze and adjust your policy as needed. Gradually move from 'none' to 'quarantine' or 'reject' to enforce stricter security measures.