Identifying the cause of a sudden spam complaint spike in Google Postmaster Tools when Klaviyo uses the same identifier for every email requires a multi-faceted approach. Start by examining the identifiers Google uses within Postmaster Tools. Supplement this with data from other Feedback Loops (FBLs) like Yahoo and Microsoft to determine if the spike is isolated to Gmail or a broader issue. Be aware that Google's machine learning can influence Feedback ID selection. Monitor IP reputation using tools like Sender Score and check for changes in email content, subject lines, and preview text that might trigger spam filters. Ensure proper list hygiene by re-engaging inactive subscribers or removing them, and follow a gradual warm-up schedule when increasing sending volume. Verify domain authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC) and CAN-SPAM compliance. Regularly review and update suppression lists and A/B test your emails.
9 marketer opinions
A sudden spam complaint spike in Google Postmaster Tools, particularly when using Klaviyo with non-unique identifiers, can stem from various factors. These include issues with IP reputation, problematic email content (keywords, formatting, excessive images), sending to unengaged or stale email list segments, and a lack of proper warm-up when increasing sending volume. Other causes can include changes to email authentication records (SPF, DKIM, DMARC), problematic subject lines or preview text, failure to adhere to CAN-SPAM regulations, and releasing a badly crafted email that didn't resonate with the audience. Regular A/B testing should prevent bad emails being released to the market.
Marketer view
Email marketer from ActiveCampaign explains that ensure your email adheres to CAN-SPAM regulations. This includes having a clear unsubscribe link, valid return address, and accurate 'from' information. Non-compliance can lead to increased complaints.
16 May 2024 - ActiveCampaign
Marketer view
Email marketer from Mailjet explains that changes in email content can trigger spam filters. Reviewing recent email templates for potentially problematic keywords, excessive use of images, or changes in formatting can help identify the cause of the spike.
16 Aug 2024 - Mailjet
5 expert opinions
Identifying the cause of a spam complaint spike in Google Postmaster Tools, especially when Klaviyo uses the same identifier for every email, involves several investigative steps. First, examine the specific identifiers Google uses by clicking on the date under the graph in Postmaster Tools. Secondly, broaden the scope beyond Gmail and check complaint data from other Feedback Loops (FBLs) like Yahoo and Microsoft, as a spike across multiple providers suggests a more widespread issue. Google's machine learning might also independently pick a Feedback ID. Consider the scope, a spike isolated to Gmail may suggest a Gmail specific issue, whilst a widespread spike implies a more general problem with content or audience. Finally, rigorous list hygiene is crucial; implement practices such as removing inactive subscribers, suppressing complainers, and using double opt-in.
Expert view
Expert from Email Geeks directs Tabish to click on the date under the graph in Google Postmaster Tools to see the identifiers Google used, which could help in identifying the cause of the issue.
29 Oct 2023 - Email Geeks
Expert view
Expert from Word to the Wise explains that rigorous list hygiene practices are crucial for mitigating spam complaints. Regularly removing inactive subscribers, suppressing complainers, and implementing a double opt-in process can help maintain a healthy sender reputation. They recommend segmenting lists based on engagement and sending targeted content to active users to minimize the risk of complaints.
3 Aug 2022 - Word to the Wise
4 technical articles
When facing a sudden spam complaint spike in Google Postmaster Tools, and Klaviyo uses the same identifier, focus on broader data sources and list management. Participating in Feedback Loops (FBLs) offers insights into campaign-specific complaints, even with non-unique identifiers. Recognize that Message-IDs don't directly correlate with Google Postmaster Tool data, and look to other identifiers instead. Use Microsoft's SNDS for a comparative view of complaint rates across providers to see if the issue is Gmail-specific. Lastly, maintain up-to-date suppression lists to remove unsubscribed or marked-as-spam users, as failing to do so raises complaint rates.
Technical article
Documentation from RFC states that while message-id's are important for email tracking, they don't directly correlate with Google Postmaster Tool data. Suggests looking into other identifiers.
7 Nov 2024 - RFC
Technical article
Documentation from Microsoft states that using SNDS (Smart Network Data Services) can provide data on complaint rates specific to their users, offering a comparative perspective to Google's Postmaster Tools. Analyzing SNDS data might reveal if the spike is isolated to Gmail or affects other mailbox providers as well.
11 Nov 2024 - Microsoft
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