CBL Blacklist: What Is It and How To Remove Yourself From It?

What is a CBL Blacklist?

CBL stands for Composite Blocking List.  The CBL Blacklist is an automatic system that flags email services that are guilty of sending spam emails that produce virus infections to a user’s computer.  The CBL gathers data from large spam traps and  lists blacklists with the following characteristics:

• Numerous varieties of open proxies
• Spam BOTs that send spam
• Viruses that send spam
• Strong malware like “trojan-horses”

The CBL does not blacklist emails based upon email volume.  Their primary focus is to block IP Addresses that are attempting to send infected emails to others.  The CBL Blacklist lists individual IP Addresses, not ranges.

How Did I Get On The CBL Blacklist?

If you are not a spammer yourself, you may have been a victim of a virus attack.  Malware filled webpages can be the reason you contracted a virus, which may be the reason you are on the blacklist.  The virus can access personal information and send bulk emails to recipients in your address book.

How Can I Remove Myself From The CBL Blacklist?

The CBL Blacklist does not have any evidence on file when an IP Address is listed.  The system is usually accurate in detecting spam emails, but if there is a mistake there is a no-questions-asked option to remove yourself from the blacklist quickly.  You can lookup you IP Address and request removal here.

Even if you are delisted, you can be added again if your email is flagged for sending spam.  Those who are on the blacklist for sending spam can have their entries expire after a given time.  The CBL Blacklist also offers a  lookup tool that helps you determine if you are on the blacklist and helps you find out more information on how to be removed.

How do I reduce my risk of getting onto the CBL Blacklist?

The best way to avoid getting listed on a blacklist is to engage in proper email practices such as...

• Verify all email addresses before attempting outreach
• Avoid sending unnecessary emails
• Avoid the use of spam words within your email drafts

Keep your sending volume to a minimum (30-50 a day if your inbox has been warmed up with us for at least 30 days)

Related Terms:

Trojan Horse: A virus designed to look legitimate that can take control of your computer and cause significant damage  

Malware: Viruses that are developed to attack your network and cause extensive damage while gaining your personal information.

IP: An Internet Protocol address is a numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. An IP address serves two main functions: host or network interface identification and location addressing