Blacklisted Servers: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I sent a message to a CARANA e-mail user, and it bounced back as undelivered with a message saying something about my host being blacklisted. What happened?

A: Most likely the mail server you are using (your organization's server, or your Internet provider's server) appears in one of the Internet blacklists that CARANA uses for spam protection.

Q: What is a spam blacklist?

A: A spam blacklist contains the Internet addresses that have been known to send spam or infected messages. CARANA mail server utilizes several such services to protect CARANA e-mail users from spam.

Q: But I did not send spam, and my antivirus protection is up to date!

A: Please note that the blocklists list Internet addresses, not individual e-mail addresses. It is possible that your organization's mail server is poorly configured (in terms of security), and was hijacked by spammers. It is also possible that someone on your network was infected by a mass-mailing virus or worm.

Q: What should I do if I am sure that my computer is free from viruses and spyware?

A. Contact us using the form below, and we will add your mail server address to the list of "trusted" adresses. That way you can send messages to CARANA users. However, you may experience problems with other servers that use blocklists. It is best to forward the error message to your IT department, or your ISP technical support staff. They will need to fix the compromised servers, and request the removal directly from the blacklist (not from CARANA).

Q: Where can I check if my mail server is listed in a blacklist?

A: There is a number of websites that provide that information. Here is a couple:

  1. DNS Stuff, use Spam database lookup field
  2. CBL - Composite Blocking List
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Last updated: December 1, 2008