Securing VCU Email with DMARC
The Collaboration Services team is introducing a new initiative designed to enhance email security at VCU: DMARC.
DMARC stands for Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance. It’s a powerful tool that helps combat phishing scams and safeguard your inbox.
Why DMARC?
Phishing emails are a major threat, often disguised as legitimate messages from trusted senders. DMARC helps us identify these imposters by verifying the authenticity of incoming emails. This means you can be more confident that the emails you receive are truly from who they claim to be.
Requiring DMARC for all VCU Email
VCU is gradually implementing DMARC to minimize disruption for users. Here’s what you can expect:
- Monitoring: We’re currently tracking suspicious emails (“spoofed” emails) that attempt to impersonate VCU senders.
- Phased Approach:
- Beginning September 3, 2024, DMARC will become more stringent and mark unapproved emails as spam.
- Beginning January 2, 2025, they will be rejected entirely.
- Minimal Impact: The rollout is designed to ensure minimal impact on your email experience. DMARC itself won’t cause delays in receiving legitimate emails.
What Do You Need to Do?
VCU Gmail users and School of Medicine Microsoft 365 Users
Individual VCU Gmail and Microsoft 365 users do not need to take action. You can continue to use email as you normally would.
VCU Mass Email Senders
If you are using an approved email service, you do not need to do anything and can continue to send mass emails as you normally would.
If you’re not sure if your email service is approved, you may need to take steps to ensure DMARC authentication is being used with your service. You can also email us at [email protected] to see if we’ve already worked with your department.
How do I get support or more information?
Contact Doctor Gee or submit an IT Support ticket.
The VCU Collaboration Services team has also compiled a helpful FAQ to address any concerns you may have. You can learn more about DMARC and related email security protocols like SPF and DKIM at https://go.vcu.edu/DMARC.