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Does rotating DKIM keys improve email deliverability and how should DKIM keys be rotated?

Summary

DKIM key rotation is primarily a security best practice, but it has significant indirect implications for email deliverability. While non-rotation doesn't inherently harm deliverability, a compromised or old key can lead to authentication failures, increasing the likelihood of emails landing in spam or being outright blocked. Regular rotation mitigates this risk by reducing the window of vulnerability and ensuring that, in the event of a breach, there are established procedures and knowledgeable personnel to execute a smooth key change without disrupting email flow.

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What email marketers say

Email marketers generally agree that while DKIM key rotation isn't a direct dial for improving deliverability, it's a critical security practice that indirectly safeguards it. The consensus leans towards preventing future deliverability issues arising from compromised keys rather than seeing rotation as a proactive measure to boost inbox placement. Many acknowledge that consistent rotation is not a common practice among most senders, but it's essential for robust email security.

Marketer view

Email Marketer from Email Geeks states that they have never observed any indication that DKIM key rotation directly improves email deliverability.

02 Feb 2024 - Email Geeks

Marketer view

Marketer from AutoSPF suggests rotating DKIM keys at least once every six months, noting that four rotations per year is an even safer choice if resources permit. This regular practice enhances security.

15 Mar 2024 - AutoSPF

What the experts say

Experts strongly advocate for DKIM key rotation as a fundamental security best practice. While they acknowledge that non-rotation itself doesn't directly harm deliverability, a compromised key poses a significant threat, capable of tanking deliverability overnight. They emphasize the importance of changing selectors during rotation to allow for a smooth transition and the need to keep old keys active for a period to account for email's asynchronous delivery. Operational readiness and established procedures are key benefits of consistent rotation.

Expert view

Expert from Email Geeks indicates that they have seldom seen any evidence of widespread DKIM key rotation practices among email senders. This suggests that while it's a recommended security measure, its adoption may not be universal.

02 Feb 2024 - Email Geeks

Expert view

Expert from Spamresource asserts that regular key rotation is critical for security, and that security failures can undeniably impact deliverability. They emphasize that a strong security posture directly supports consistent inbox placement.

10 Mar 2024 - Spamresource

What the documentation says

Documentation consistently frames DKIM key rotation as a crucial security measure. It highlights that regular rotation minimizes the window of vulnerability for compromised keys, which, if exploited, could severely impact email authenticity and deliverability. Best practices from various platforms, including cloud email services, emphasize the use of multiple selectors and a transition period where both old and new keys are active, ensuring that emails in transit are still verifiable. This systematic approach is key to maintaining integrity and preventing service disruption.

Technical article

Documentation from M3AAWG Best Current Practices for DKIM Key Rotation states that key rotation is a critical security measure aimed at reducing the potential impact of a compromised key. This proactive step minimizes the risk of unauthorized signing.

02 Feb 2024 - m3aawg.org

Technical article

Mailgun's documentation emphasizes that regular key rotation prevents malicious actors from exploiting older, potentially compromised keys. This security practice is crucial for maintaining the integrity of email authentication and trust.

10 Jan 2024 - Mailgun

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