UCEPROTECT DNSBL Level 1 is an IP-based blacklist that lists individual IP addresses reported by trusted systems for hitting spam traps or attempting unauthorized relaying, functioning as a blocklist to pressure administrators into securing their servers against abuse.
UCEPROTECT DNSBL Level 1 is an IP-based blacklist that lists individual IP addresses. An IP is added to this blocklist when it sends email to a spamtrap or attempts unauthorized relaying through systems that report to UCEPROTECT. The project's policy is to list IPs based on reports from what they call 'Trusted REPORTING SYSTEMS'. These systems include various commercial users and internet service providers who have been approved as trusted sources.
This DNS-based blocklist (or DNSBL) is one of three levels offered by the organization, with Level 1 being the most specific as it targets single IPs. The list is dynamic and is rebuilt on an hourly basis, ensuring that new sources of spam are added quickly. The primary goal of UCEPROTECT DNSBL Level 1 is to identify and block mail from individual compromised or abusive systems in near real-time.
UCEPROTECT DNSBL Level 1 is operated by UCEPROTECT, a project with a stated mission to stop global email abuse. Their philosophy is that the most effective way to combat spam is not by filtering it at the user's inbox, but by forcing internet service providers, carriers, and system administrators to secure their networks and prevent abuse from happening in the first place. They believe that many administrators only act when faced with significant problems, which their blacklists aim to create.
The network's database is fed by a cluster of servers located across several countries. Spammers and other abusers are listed automatically when their emails hit spamtrap networks operated by UCEPROTECT's members. The organization emphasizes its clear and strict policies for both listing and removal, stating that no exceptions are made.
The standard delisting process from the UCEPROTECT DNSBL Level 1 blocklist is automatic and free. An IP address will be removed from the blacklist 7 days after the last abusive activity was detected. It is crucial to ensure that the underlying issue causing the spam has been completely resolved, because any new spam report will reset the 7-day timer. You can check the status of your IP on the official UCEPROTECT website.
UCEPROTECT also offers an optional, paid immediate removal for senders who cannot wait the full 7 days. However, this option is not always available. According to their policy, express delisting is unavailable under the following circumstances:
The impact of a listing on the UCEPROTECT DNSBL Level 1 is generally considered medium. While the organization claims millions of systems use their blacklist, their aggressive policies can deter some mail server administrators from using it. Being listed will cause email delivery failures to recipients whose mail servers use this specific blocklist. Since Level 1 targets individual IPs, it is the most frequently used of the three UCEPROTECT levels, but its overall adoption is not as universal as some other major industry blacklists. Nonetheless, a listing should be treated as a serious issue that requires immediate investigation to resolve the root cause and prevent further damage to your sender reputation.
Organization
Zone
Type
Impact
Delisting
Organization
Zone
Type
Impact
Delisting
Organization
Zone
Type
Impact
Delisting
19 resources
How to deal with UCEProtect listings and their aggressive practices?
Is UCEPROTECT L3 a blacklist worth worrying about for email deliverability?
What does a UCEPROTECTL3 blocklist mean for email deliverability and pristine spam traps?
What is the impact of being on the UCEPROTECTL3 blacklist and how to deal with it?
What is the impact of UCEPROTECT Level 3 listings on email deliverability?
What should I do if my IP address is blacklisted by UCEPROTECT?