Why Your Business Needs DMARC: A Leadership Perspective on Email Security

The Rising Threat of Email Fraud

One of the most overlooked security vulnerabilities is email security. Every day, cybercriminals attempt to impersonate brands, sending fraudulent emails that can damage reputations and put customers at risk. I’d go as far as saying 90% of attempted breaches we see are via email.

I’ve seen first-hand how damaging a phishing attack can be—both in terms of financial loss and trust. Which is why I think DMARC (domain-based message authenticating, reporting & conformance) is no longer optional; it’s essential.

What is DMARC and Why Should You Care?

DMARC is a security protocol designed to prevent attackers from using your domain for malicious purposes. It works alongside SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) to ensure that only authorised emails are sent on your behalf.

But let’s put the technical jargon aside—what DMARC really does is protect your brand, your customers, and your bottom line.

The Business Case for DMARC

I often hear, “Is DMARC really necessary?” The short answer: yes. Here’s why:

Regulatory Compliance is Catching Up

• PCI DSS Compliance (Deadline: 31st March 2024) – If you handle online card payments, DMARC is now a requirement. Some provisions extend to March 2025, but waiting isn’t a smart move.
• Cyber Essentials Certification – Demonstrating strong email security is crucial for certification and shows your commitment to cybersecurity best practices.

Protecting Your Reputation is Priceless

A single phishing attack can damage years of brand trust. I’ve spoken to business leaders who had to do extensive damage control after their customers received fraudulent emails from their “domain.” DMARC stops cybercriminals from impersonating your company, keeping your brand credibility intact.

Better Email Deliverability

Ever wonder why some of your emails end up in spam? Without proper authentication, email providers are more likely to flag messages as suspicious. With DMARC in place, your legitimate emails have a much better chance of reaching inboxes.

Visibility = Control

DMARC isn’t just about blocking bad actors—it gives you valuable insights. DMARC reports help you see exactly who is sending emails on your behalf, whether legitimate or not. Having this level of transparency means you can tighten your security policies before issues arise.

Get Ahead, Don’t Fall Behind

We’re at a point where cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue—it’s a business issue. Implementing DMARC now puts you ahead of regulatory changes, protects your brand, and ensures your emails reach their intended audience.

If you haven’t yet taken action on DMARC, now is the time. Cyber threats are only getting more advanced, and protecting your business should always be a priority.