Implementing DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance) compliant emails involves several steps to ensure that your email domain is protected against spoofing and phishing attacks. Here's a simplified overview of our unique and effective methodology:

Initial evaluation of SPF and DMARC records (first meeting):

Generally, before we even speak, we have a general idea of your basic SPF and DMARC settings and if you have glaring syntax or other errors.

Discuss your sending environment and check and/or publish a DMARC policy (first meeting):

We will check your existing SPF and other records, and discuss with you your sending methods to determine your sending sources. Importantly, we will help you configure proper DMARC reporting so we can determine your sending sources so they can be verified and configured correctly.

Recommend changes for obvious errors and omissions in SPF and DKIM (first meeting):

Based on the conversations held about your email sending procedures, and what we see in our initial checks, we may make suggestions on changes to SPF and DKIM entries.

Wait for your test sends using your sending sources and the resulting DMARC reports (generally 1 week):

We will ask you to send a test using normal volume from all your sending sources as soon as possible so we can gather DMARC aggregate reports. This takes seven to fourteen days depending on your sending cadence.

Gradual Enforcement (two weeks to a month):

Continue to monitor DMARC aggregate reports to further understand your email ecosystem and identify legitimate sources and potential issues. Gradually increase the DMARC policy from "p=none" to "p=quarantine" and then to "p=reject" as confidence is gained in the email authentication setup.

Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance (on going):

Continuously monitor DMARC reports and analyze them for anomalies or unauthorized activity. Stay informed about changes in email authentication standards and best practices. Regularly review and update your DMARC policy and configurations as your email ecosystem evolves.

Education and Awareness (on going):

Educate your users and stakeholders about the importance of DMARC and email security best practices and encourage users to report suspicious emails and phishing attempts.

By following these steps, MaxOpens can effectively implement DMARC compliant emails and enhance the security of your organization's email communications. Remember that DMARC implementation is an ongoing process that requires monitoring, adjustment, and continuous improvement to effectively enhance delivery and combat email-based threats.