Why it is time to stop using DMARC policy of none
Protecting your domain’s reputation and ensuring your emails reach inboxes isn’t optional, it’s essential. One of the most powerful tools in your email authentication toolkit is DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance). But simply having DMARC isn’t enough anymore
Many companies still use the default or relaxed setting of p=none. While this might feel like a safe, “wait and see” option, it can leave your domain, and your recipients vulnerable. Let’s dive into why it's time to move beyond p=none and why Prodocom recommends adjusting to a stronger DMARC policy.
What does p=none actually do?
A DMARC policy set to p=none is essentially passive. It tells receiving mail servers to generate reports about email activity but take no action on unauthenticated emails
While p=none is useful during initial monitoring, it’s not a long-term solution. You get visibility into how your domain is being used (or misused), but you don’t stop phishing, spoofing, or fraudulent emails pretending to come from your domain
Why it’s important to move to p=quarantine or p=reject
Once you've analysed your DMARC reports and aligned your SPF and DKIM records correctly, it’s time to go on the offence:
Protect your brand and customers: A stricter DMARC policy (p=quarantine or p=reject) prevents unauthorised senders from spoofing your domain. This builds trust with your customers and protects your brand from being associated with spam or fraud.
Improve email deliverability: Mailbox providers (like Gmail and Outlook) favour domains with strong authentication practices. Upgrading your policy signals that you're serious about security and helps ensure your legitimate emails reach the inbox, not the spam folder
Reduce your risk: With phishing and impersonation attacks on the rise, DMARC is one of the most effective defences. A stronger policy makes it far more difficult for attackers to misuse your domain.
Enhance visibility and accountability: Moving past p=none forces companies to clean up misaligned email sources, ensure third-party senders are compliant, and streamline outbound communication practices.
Moving forward
Align SPF and DKIM for all senders. Make sure every legitimate source is passing both SPF and DKIM checks.
Progress to p=quarantine or p=reject. Gradually tighten your policy once you’re confident all valid sources are authenticated.
Maintain and monitor. Keep reviewing your DMARC reports to catch new services or potential misconfigurations early
Final Thoughts
Keeping your DMARC policy at p=none is like leaving your front door open and hoping no one walks in. It’s time to take that next step in protecting your digital presence. With spam filters and email security becoming increasingly sophisticated, domains that fail to lock down authentication will find themselves left behind, or worse, exploited.
If you’re unsure how to make the transition, Prodocom can help. Our team works with businesses of all sizes to implement secure email authentication and deliverability strategies. Let’s secure your domain and make sure your emails land where they should, in the inbox.
Need help moving beyond p=none?
Get in touch with Prodocom and let’s future proof your email communication today.
