DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) is an email authentication standard that uses cryptographic signatures to help receiving mail systems verify that a message was authorized by the sending domain and was not modified in transit.
Why it matters for account recovery
DKIM matters because it supports authenticity and integrity signals that mail systems use to filter spoofing and impersonation. It is a key control for reducing brand and domain abuse.
In practice, DKIM is most effective as part of a set: SPF, DKIM, and DMARC working together.
Common failure modes and misconceptions
- Partial deployment: If not all sending services sign mail correctly, DKIM can be inconsistent and reduce trust signals.
- Assuming DKIM stops phishing: Attackers can still phish from lookalike domains or compromised real accounts. User verification and account security still matter.
Safe best practices
- Ensure all legitimate sending services sign mail with DKIM, and rotate keys safely.
- Pair DKIM with SPF and DMARC to enforce alignment and policy.
- Treat it as one layer in a broader defense against BEC and phishing.
Related terms
Related guides
DKIM is about trustworthy email signals, not perfect safety. When authentication is consistent, defenders get better filtering and better incident triage signals.