Important Changes in Email Rules of Gmail and Yahoo from February 2024

What is it about?

Gmail and Yahoo are implementing new rules regarding spam evaluation, targeting both email recipients and senders. Whether you're someone who sends thousands of emails daily or occasionally sends newsletters, these changes will affect you.

What does this mean for you as a recipient?

If you regularly receive emails from addresses like @gmail.com, Yahoo, or AOL, these new rules are relevant to you. Let's explore some changes you can expect.

• Improved Security and Transparency
  Recipients can now have more confidence in the origin of emails, as authentication requirements are tightened, reducing the risk of phishing and spoofing.

• Simplified Unsubscribe Process
  Recipients can now unsubscribe from unwanted emails with just one click, making subscription and preference management much easier.

For Senders: Crucial Guidelines

If you send more than 5000 emails per day or specifically to Gmail and Yahoo users, there are important points to remember. Here are some tips to prepare.

• Email Authentication is a Must 
  Ensure your emails are well-authenticated with DKIM, SPF, and DMARC. Authenticated emails are less likely to be marked as spam.

• Avoid Manipulating "From:" Headers
  Be transparent and honest about the sender. Imitating well-known email domains is not allowed.

• Keep Spam Percentage Low
  Send relevant and desired emails to keep your spam percentage low. Too many spam complaints can harm your domain's reputation.

• One-Click Unsubscribe
  Ensure recipients can easily unsubscribe. A user-friendly unsubscribe option enhances the user experience.

How to Prepare?

Don't worry; we are here to help! Follow these steps before February 1, 2024, to avoid landing in the Spambox.

• DKIM Record
  ‍DKIM is like a digital signature for emails, ensuring the emails you send are genuine. Adjustments are necessary to prevent others from impersonating you.
  
  Where: Go to your email domain settings with your provider.
  How: Find the DKIM section and follow the instructions to add or update a DKIM record. Note: If you use other systems alongside your email provider (e.g., Google Workspace, CRM system, Chatbot, Bonjoro, etc.), add these DKIM (and SPF) records to prevent them from ending up in the spambox.

• SPF Records
  SPF specifies which computers are allowed to send emails on your behalf. Updating this prevents others from impersonating your domain and sending false emails.
  
  Where: Also in the settings of your email domain with your provider.
  How: The exact steps may vary depending on your domain provider. Consult your provider's documentation for specific instructions.

• DMARC Records
  Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance protect against fraud and phishing. Ensure your DMARC, SPF, and DKIM are properly configured to protect and make your emails reliable.
  
  Where: Within the DNS settings of your domain provider.
  How: Create a DMARC record following your provider's guidelines. Set specific instructions for cases where emails fail DMARC authentication.

• One-Click Unsubscribe
  Include an accessible button in each email for quick unsubscribing. Ensure people can easily decide whether they want to receive your emails.
  
  Where: This is usually managed in the email marketing software you use.
  How: Update the unsubscribe settings and make sure each outgoing email contains a clear and easy-to-use unsubscribe link.

• Spam Score <0.1%
  The gauge indicating the likelihood of your email being seen as spam. Keeping this low maintains a good reputation and avoids issues with delivering your emails.
  
  Where: Monitoring is often done through email marketing tools or dashboards.
  How: A useful tool to check the spam score is Google Postmaster.

Conclusion: Avoid Ending up in the Spambox

We hope this article has helped you understand the upcoming changes better. But if you're still navigating the settings and need assistance, we're here for you! Contact us, and let's tackle this email revolution together. Your emails deserve to shine! 🚀✉️‍