Blacklisted domain name: how to check it and get delisted
A blacklisted domain name gets its emails rejected, its pages preceded by a red warning in Chrome and its SEO reputation ruined. Here is how to run a blacklist check and how to get delisted.
Test a domain now:
The main domain blocklists
- Spamhaus DBL (Domain Block List): domains used in spam, phishing or malware; used by most mail servers.
- SURBL and URIBL: domains appearing in the body of spam emails.
- Google Safe Browsing: sites hosting malware, phishing or unwanted software; triggers the red screen of Chrome, Firefox and Safari.
- VirusTotal aggregates about a hundred antivirus engines and lists.
DomaineScore checks these families of lists and sets the "security" criterion to zero when the domain is listed: the total score is then capped at 45.
Consequences for the site and email
On the email side, a listed domain has its messages refused or sent to spam by Gmail, Outlook and most mail hosts; also check its SPF, DKIM and DMARC records. On the web side, the browser blocks the visit and Google removes or demotes the pages. On the SEO side, buying such a domain means starting with a handicap.
Getting delisted
Each list has a form: Spamhaus Blocklist Removal Center, SURBL lookup, URIBL lookup, and for Safe Browsing Google Search Console ("Security issues" report, then "Request review"). Delisting requires fixing the cause first: cleaned site, secured mail account, redirects removed. Allow a few hours to a few weeks.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my domain is blacklisted?
Analyse it on DomaineScore: the "Security & blocklists" criterion shows whether it is on email, phishing, malware and browser lists. You can also use the lookup tool of each list directly.
Can a blacklisted domain become clean again?
Yes, after cleaning and delisting. But the archives will keep a trace of the toxic period; for an SEO purchase, better avoid it.