Google Enhances DMARC Reports with Failure Insights
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Reading Time: 2 min
Key Takeaways
- Google now includes SMTP error codes in DMARC aggregate reports
- These codes appear in the <policy evaluated> section of their XML reports, under the <reason><comment> tag
- Google’s DMARC update provides precise failure insights, such as SPF, DKIM, or alignment issues
- It marks a significant step forward in email deliverability diagnostics and compliance tracking
In a major win for email security, transparency, and compliance, Google has rolled out a game-changing update to its DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance) aggregate reports. With this latest enhancement, domain owners can now access clear, actionable SMTP error codes that explain exactly why a message failed DMARC checks.
This follows Google’s February 2024 update, which introduced stricter rules for bulk email senders.
What’s New: Google’s DMARC Reports Get Specific
Until now, DMARC aggregate reports were somewhat unclear, telling you an email “failed,” but not why. That left senders sifting through complex SMTP logs or relying on trial and error.
Now, that changes. Google has enhanced the <policy_evaluated> section in DMARC XML reports to include a <comment> field under <reason>, providing human-readable explanations tied to SMTP error codes.
Here’s what the new structure looks like:
| <reason> <type>local_policy</type> <comment>Sender requirement failed: 550-5.7.30</comment> </reason> |
Explainer: The email was blocked because it failed DKIM authentication (550-5.7.30 SMTP error code).
Common SMTP Error Codes Highlighted in Recent Reports
| Error Code | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 421-4.7.27 | Rate limited due to SPF failure |
| 550-5.7.27 | Blocked due to SPF failure |
| 421-4.7.30 | Rate limited due to DKIM failure |
| 550-5.7.30 | Blocked due to DKIM failure |
| 550-5.7.25 | Blocked due to PTR/DNS mismatch |
| 421-4.7.32 | Rate limited due to lack of domain alignment |
| 550-5.7.1 | Blocked for other reasons (unauthorized IP, non-compliance with RFC guidelines, etc.) |
Explore the full list of error codes on Google Support.
Why This Google DMARC Update Matters
Google’s DMARC aggregate report enhancement is a paradigm shift in how senders approach email authentication and troubleshooting.
- Actionable intelligence: You now know exactly why an email failed, not just that it failed.
- Faster fixes: Teams can move quickly to resolve SPF, DKIM, alignment, or DNS issues.
- Compliance tracking: Easily align with Google’s sender requirements.
- Security boost: Spot misconfigurations and spoofing attempts in real-time.
- Less guesswork: Say goodbye to reactive troubleshooting and hello to proactive deliverability management.
PowerDMARC Is Ready for What’s Next
At PowerDMARC, we’re fully aligned with this shift toward greater transparency in email authentication. Our development team is already working on integrating Google’s enhanced DMARC insights into our platform. Soon, our users will be able to view, interpret, and act on these detailed failure reasons directly within their dashboards.
Stay tuned – smarter DMARC reporting is coming to your PowerDMARC dashboard very soon! Book a demo today and experience the future of email authentication with PowerDMARC.
Domain & Email Security Expert at PowerDMARC
Ahona is the Marketing Manager at PowerDMARC, with 5+ years of experience in writing about cybersecurity topics, specializing in domain and email security. Ahona holds a post-graduation degree in Journalism and Communications, solidifying her career in the security sector since 2019.
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