How does whitelisting work today (vs 2010)?

In 2010, whitelisting often meant certification programs providing actual filtering bypass. Whitelisted senders had significantly different treatment than non-whitelisted. This binary approach couldn't scale and didn't account for content variation.

Today, whitelisting is reputation-based and graduated. Strong senders earn lighter scrutiny through demonstrated behavior rather than external certification. Engagement signals personalize filtering per recipient. "Whitelisted" status is earned continuously rather than granted once.

Modern approach means: good practices provide whitelist-like benefits without formal programs, reputation must be maintained actively, and certification supplements rather than replaces behavioral earning. The shift rewards consistent good behavior over certification status.