Easy Steps to Enhance Email Security with SPF, DMARC, and DKIM Records

With the February 1st, 2024 deadline here, it’s crucial for businesses to implement SPF, DMARC, and DKIM settings for email security. This guide simplifies the process, providing straightforward steps and tools to help you set up these protocols, especially for those using platforms like Shopify and Klaviyo.

Setting Up and Verifying SPF Records

SPF (Sender Policy Framework) helps prevent email spoofing. Here’s how to set it up and verify it:

1. Create an SPF Record: Add a text record to your domain’s DNS with the following details:
   • Type: Text
   • Name: @
   • Value: v=spf1 include:google.com include:shops.shopify.com include:amazonses.com ~all
2. Verify Your SPF Record:
   • Use the SPF Record Analyzer to check the validity and troubleshoot problems.
   • For a quick lookup, try SPF Lookup.

Implementing and Checking DMARC Records

DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance) works with SPF and DKIM. Here’s how to use it:

1. Set Up a DMARC Record: Add a DMARC record in your DNS settings. Example:
   • Name: _dmarc
   • Value: v=DMARC1; p=none
2. Verify Your DMARC Record:
   • Check your DMARC record with DMARC Inspector

Managing DKIM Records

DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) adds a digital signature to emails. To set it up:

1. Get DKIM Record from Your Email Provider: Each provider, like Google Workspace, has specific instructions.
2. Add the DKIM Record to Your DNS: Follow your provider’s guidelines to implement it.

Specific Steps for Shopify and Klaviyo Users If you’re using Shopify or Klaviyo, follow these tailored steps:

• Shopify Users: Authenticate your email with SPF and DKIM as per Shopify’s guidelines.
• Klaviyo Users:
  • If you purchased your domain from Shopify then read this carefully: For setting up branded domains, use “Static” and “Other” domain settings in Klaviyo to add CNAME records compatible with Shopify. More details can be found in this Klaviyo community guide
  • If you use any of the other domain providers like GoDaddy or NameCheap, then you can use the Dynamic option and follow the instructions from Klaviyo to set up the NS (name server) records and verify upon completion.

Enhancing Email Accessibility Alongside SPF, DMARC, and DKIM Records

While implementing SPF, DMARC, and DKIM records is crucial for email security and authentication, ensuring email accessibility is equally important. Accessible emails guarantee that your content is reachable and readable by all users, including those with disabilities. Here’s how to make your emails more accessible:

Importance of Email Accessibility

Accessible emails not only broaden your audience reach but also comply with various legal standards and best practices. It reflects your commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that individuals with visual, auditory, or cognitive disabilities can interact with your email content effectively.

How to Make Emails Accessible

1. Use Alt Text for Images: Alt text (alternative text) provides a text alternative for images. It’s crucial for visually impaired users who rely on screen readers. Ensure that every image in your emails, including logos and buttons, has descriptive alt text.
2. Readable and Clear Font: Choose fonts that are easy to read. Avoid fancy or cursive fonts. Ensure good contrast between text and background colors. A font size of at least 14px is generally recommended.
3. Logical Structure: Use headings and subheadings to structure your content logically. This helps users with cognitive disabilities to better understand the flow of the email.
4. Use Descriptive Links: Instead of ‘click here’, use descriptive link texts like ‘Read our full refund policy’. This helps users understand where the link will take them.
5. Keyboard Navigation: Ensure that all parts of the email can be navigated using a keyboard. This is crucial for users who cannot use a mouse.
6. Accessible Email Templates: Use email templates that are designed with accessibility in mind. Many email marketing platforms offer such templates.
7. Testing for Accessibility: Regularly test your emails for accessibility. There are various tools available online that can help you with this.
8. Include a Plain Text Version: Provide a plain text version of your email for those who cannot access HTML emails.

Conclusion

Combining email security measures like SPF, DMARC, and DKIM with accessibility practices ensures that your email communications are not only safe and authentic but also inclusive. By making your emails accessible, you cater to a wider audience, enhance user experience, and demonstrate social responsibility. Remember, effective communication is about ensuring that your message is not only received but also understood by everyone.