How to fix a Spamhaus CBL listing when using multiple ESPs and Bluehost?
Summary
What email marketers say11Marketer opinions
Marketer from Email Geeks explains that it is the client's IT responsibility for configuring the firewall, but coordination is necessary to ensure the work is done. Suggests checking if Bluehost is managing the VPS and if they know the drill.
Email marketer from Litmus shares that before sending any campaigns, use email testing tools to check for deliverability issues, rendering problems, and spam triggers. Correct any identified issues before deployment.
Email marketer from HubSpot shares that segment your email list to send targeted and relevant messages. This increases engagement and reduces the likelihood of spam complaints.
Email marketer from Reddit shares that having multiple ESPs and landing on Spamhaus means you likely have a sending problem. Moving between ESPs won't solve the underlying issue. Audit your sending practices, list acquisition, and content.
Email marketer from Mailchimp shares that monitor bounce rates. High bounce rates can negatively impact your sender reputation. Remove hard bounces immediately and investigate soft bounces.
Email marketer from SendGrid explains that if using a new IP address, gradually warm it up by sending small volumes of email to engaged subscribers first, then slowly increase the volume over time.
Email marketer from MarketingProfs shares that ensure you have explicit consent from subscribers, maintain a clean email list by removing inactive or unengaged users, and segment your audience to send more relevant content.
Marketer from Email Geeks explains that it depends on the client's understanding of best practices. If they continue with the same lists, content, and basic hygiene, Spamhaus won't be forgiving if they have to list the client again. Significant changes are necessary if the client has already attracted Spamhaus's attention.
Email marketer from StackOverflow responds that for Spamhaus delisting, identify the root cause of the listing (e.g., compromised server, spam complaints), fix the issue, and then follow Spamhaus's delisting procedure, providing evidence of remediation.
Email marketer from EmailGeek shares that using multiple ESPs can complicate deliverability. Consolidate to a single ESP and properly authenticate your domains (SPF, DKIM, DMARC). Also, ensure proper list hygiene and permission practices.
Marketer from Email Geeks explains that moving ESPs and/or domains risks being listed as "snow shoe" spammers, which are those who move infrastructure when listed. The best option is to fix the current problem and request delisting.
What the experts say2Expert opinions
Expert from Wordtothewise.com shares that it is important to implement strong authentication measures, such as two-factor authentication (2FA), and regularly audit user accounts to prevent unauthorized access and potential spam activity originating from compromised accounts. They also share you should limit sending permissions.
Expert from Spamresource.com explains to monitor outbound traffic for unusual patterns that might indicate a compromised system. Also use tools to identify open relays or proxies that can be exploited for spamming.
What the documentation says5Technical articles
Documentation from DMARC.org explains that implementing DMARC helps protect your domain from email spoofing. Set up SPF and DKIM, then configure a DMARC policy to monitor and control email authentication results.
Documentation from RFC explains that SPF records authorize which mail servers are allowed to send email on behalf of your domain. Create an SPF record listing all legitimate sending sources, including ESPs and Bluehost servers.
Documentation from Spamhaus explains that to get delisted from the CBL, you must address the cause of the listing, which typically involves compromised systems or spam activity. Review the CBL listing details for specific reasons and remediation steps.
Documentation from Bluehost explains that if a Bluehost account is compromised, immediately change passwords, scan for malware, and review recent activity for unauthorized access. Contact Bluehost support for assistance in securing the account.
Documentation from DKIM Proxy explains that DKIM adds a digital signature to your emails, verifying that the email hasn't been tampered with during transit. Configure DKIM for all sending domains and ESPs.