What are Backup Authentication Methods?
Backup authentication methods are additional security measures that ensure the
integrity and
deliverability of your email marketing campaigns. These methods act as a secondary layer of verification to protect against unauthorized access and to confirm the identity of the sender. They are particularly important in maintaining the trust of your
subscribers and in improving the overall
deliverability rates of your emails.
Why Are They Important?
In email marketing,
security is paramount. Without proper authentication, your emails might end up in the
spam folder or be rejected by email servers. Backup authentication methods help to ensure that your emails are coming from a legitimate source. This not only boosts your sender reputation but also safeguards your
brand integrity.
Common Backup Authentication Methods
Here are some of the most common backup authentication methods used in email marketing:Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring not only a password and username but also something that only the user has on them, i.e., a piece of information only they should know or have immediately to hand. This could be a
one-time password (OTP) sent to their phone or a secondary email address.
DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM)
DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM) is an email authentication method that allows the receiver to check that an email was indeed sent and authorized by the owner of that domain. It uses an encrypted digital signature that is added to the email's header.
Sender Policy Framework (SPF)
Sender Policy Framework (SPF) is an email-authentication technique that is used to prevent spammers from sending messages on behalf of your domain. It allows the receiving mail server to verify that an email claiming to come from a specific domain is sent by an IP address authorized by that domain's administrators.
DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance)
DMARC builds on the SPF and DKIM protocols, adding a reporting function that allows senders to improve and monitor the protection of their domain from fraudulent email. It helps in ensuring that emails are correctly authenticated against established DKIM and SPF standards.
How to Implement Backup Authentication Methods?
Implementing backup authentication methods can seem daunting, but it is a crucial step in safeguarding your email marketing efforts. Here are some steps to get started:Set Up 2FA
Most email service providers offer two-factor authentication. Enable it in your account settings and choose the method of receiving your secondary code (SMS, email, or an authentication app).
Configure DKIM and SPF Records
To set up DKIM and SPF, you will need to update your domain's DNS records. This typically involves adding a TXT record that contains your DKIM public key and another TXT record for SPF that lists the IP addresses authorized to send emails on behalf of your domain.
Implement DMARC
Create a DMARC policy by adding a TXT record to your DNS settings. This record will specify how your emails should be handled if they fail SPF or DKIM checks and where to send reports of such failures.
Best Practices for Email Marketers
Here are some best practices to keep in mind when implementing backup authentication methods: Regularly Monitor Reports: Use DMARC reports to monitor your email authentication status and to identify any unauthorized use of your domain.
Educate Your Team: Ensure that everyone involved in your email marketing efforts understands the importance of these authentication methods and how to manage them.
Keep Your Records Updated: Regularly review and update your SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records to ensure they reflect your current email sending practices.
Test Regularly: Use tools to test your email authentication setup to make sure everything is configured correctly.
Conclusion
Backup authentication methods are essential to the success of your email marketing campaigns. By implementing and regularly updating methods such as 2FA, DKIM, SPF, and DMARC, you can enhance your email security, improve deliverability, and maintain the trust of your subscribers. Don't overlook these crucial steps in your email marketing strategy.