DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) adds a digital signature to email messages that allows the recipient’s email provider to verify that the email was sent from a legitimate source and has not been tampered with. This process helps prevent spam and phishing by enabling email providers to filter out fraudulent messages and blocking them from reaching the recipient’s inbox.
DKIM prevents spammers and phishers from spoofing the sending domain by using a cryptographic signature, which requires access to the domain’s private key. Thus, only legitimate senders can sign messages properly. Email providers can then verify the sender’s identity and prevent messages from being delivered if they fail to meet the authentication requirements.
Additionally, DKIM provides a mechanism for email recipients to report fraudulent messages to the sender’s domain. This feedback loop allows legitimate senders to monitor their reputation and take action to prevent further abuse.
Overall, DKIM is an effective tool for preventing spam and phishing by authenticating email messages and providing mechanisms for reporting and blocking fraudulent emails.