This guide explains what spamtrap email addresses are.

Introduction

• A spamtrap, also known as a honeypot, is a tool used to detect and catch spammers.
• It is essentially an email address or system that is created with the aim of attracting unwanted messages, such as spam.

How a Spamtrap Address Works

A spamtrap address works by attracting spam and identifying the senders of unwanted messages. Here's how this can happen:

1. An email address is created specifically to act as a spam trap; it is generally configured in such a way that it does not receive legitimate communications.
2. The spam trap address is hidden or obscured so that it is not visible to legitimate users, but only to spammers; this can be done by placing it on hidden web pages, in forums inaccessible to the public, or by making it invisible to humans (for example, by using white text on a white background).
3. Spammers use automated techniques to extract email addresses from various sources, such as websites, forums, social networks, or stolen address lists; during this process, they may unintentionally or intentionally include spam traps in their lists.
4. When a spammer sends a message to a spam trap address, it is captured and recorded; since the address is not used for legitimate communication, any email received is considered unwanted.
5. When a spamtrap receives spam, it triggers an alert for email service providers like Infomaniak; these providers can then identify the spammer by examining the message headers or information related to the source IP address.
6. Once a spammer has been identified through a spamtrap address, measures can be taken to block or filter their unwanted messages; Infomaniak can add the spammer's IP address to a blacklist, implement stricter anti-spam filters, or take other measures to protect its users.