What is TechTheft Scanning Blacklist?
The TechTheft Scanning Blacklist (scanning.bl.techtheft.info) is an IP-based blocklist that automatically lists addresses based on server and firewall logs. This blacklist focuses specifically on IPs that are observed scanning for open relays, proxy access, or other system exploits. It is a private blocklist, meaning its usage is restricted to internal subscribers of the TechTheft service.
The listing policy is automatic and targets proactive scanning behavior rather than the direct aftermath of a viral infection. For example, it would list a machine probing a network for vulnerabilities, but a different list would be used for a machine already infected with a virus that is sending spam. Additions to this blacklist (or blocklist) are not based on manual nominations, but are solely derived from data collected by TechTheft's infrastructure.
Who runs TechTheft Scanning Blacklist?
The TechTheft organization operates this blocklist. The group describes its core mission as combating "Hi-Technology Theft," which includes everything from viral attacks and spam to DDoS attacks and IP hijacking. They see their work as a critical part of the fight against widespread technology abuse.
The organization's philosophy was shaped by the history of antispam efforts. They believe that earlier systems became too slow or lenient. TechTheft advocates for a strict approach: cutting off abusive behavior at the source. They aim to block all attempts at attack at the very start of a connection, asserting that this is more effective than simply filtering malicious content after it has already been sent.
How do I get removed and delisted from TechTheft Scanning Blacklist?
Removal from the TechTheft Scanning Blacklist involves both automatic and manual processes. Before requesting removal, you must ensure you have addressed the underlying issue that caused the listing.
- Investigate the cause: Identify and secure the compromised device or server on your network that was performing the scanning activity. The listing indicates that your IP was observed scanning for vulnerabilities.
- Set up an abuse contact: Ensure you have a functioning abuse@ email address for your domain and IP range. You must be able to receive and act on any abuse complaints sent to this address.
- Resolve all complaints: Once the issue is fixed, ensure any open complaints related to your IP have been fully resolved. The delisting process is tied to the resolution of these complaints.
Once these steps are taken, the removal process can occur. An IP is automatically removed from the blocklist 90 days after the last malicious activity is sighted. For those who have fixed the issue, a manual review can reduce this quarantine period to 15 days. There is no public-facing delisting form; the process is managed by resolving the abuse complaints.
What's the impact of being listed on TechTheft Scanning Blacklist?
The impact of being on the TechTheft Scanning Blacklist is generally considered low. This is because it is a private list used internally by TechTheft's subscribers, who gain access by invitation only. Unlike major public blacklists, its reach is limited, so a listing here will not cause widespread email delivery failures across the internet.
However, you should not ignore a listing on this blocklist. It is a clear warning that your IP address is associated with network scanning and malicious activity. The issues that trigger a listing here are very likely to get your IP listed on other, more impactful blocklists that could severely harm your email deliverability and sender reputation.
Spamhaus
0Spam
Cisco
NoSolicitado
URIBL
abuse.ro
ALPHANET
Anonmails
Ascams
BLOCKEDSERVERS
Calivent Networks
EFnet
JustSpam
Kempt.net
NordSpam
RV-SOFT Technology
Scientific Spam
Spamikaze
SpamRATS
SPFBL
Suomispam
System 5 Hosting
Team Cymru
Validity
www.blocklist.de Fail2Ban-Reporting Service
ZapBL
2stepback.dk
Fayntic Services
ORB UK
technoirc.org
TechTheft
