IP addresses are added to the MAPS RSS list because they are insecure 'open relays' that have been utilized to send spam. This means that spammers are using your mail server to relay spam to others. We use the terms "open relay", "insecure relay", and "third-party relay" interchangeably. All of these terms refer to the fact that your mailserver is capable of routing mail from nonusers to other nonusers.

The process to getting your IP address removed from the MAPS RSS list is very simple. First, we ask that you please secure your mail server to stop relaying spam. In most cases, this is very easy—it probably only involves a checkmark on a preferences screen or replacing an old, outdated configuration file. The second step is to complete a simple form requesting removal.

To request an IP address be removed from the MAPS RSS, you need to use our lookup tool to verify your IP address is on the list and then complete the removal request form found with your results.

After you submit the form, we will promptly retest and remove your server from our list, assuming that it is no longer able to relay third-party mail.

If you need assistance in securing your server, information can be found in the Application Note: How to secure your mail system against third-party relay, or from your software/support vendor, Internet Service Provider, or your upstream provider.