What organizations set global standards?

The Internet Engineering Task Force (**IETF**) publishes core email standards as RFCs (Request for Comments). SPF, DKIM, DMARC, and fundamental **SMTP** specifications all originate from **IETF** working groups. These become the technical foundation everyone implements.

**M3AAWG** (Messaging, Malware, Mobile Anti-Abuse Working Group) brings together industry players to develop best practices beyond technical standards. They publish guidelines on sender practices, anti-abuse cooperation, and emerging threats. **M3AAWG** membership includes major MBPs, ESPs, and security companies.

Regional bodies add layer: the Direct Marketing Association (**DMA**) establishes marketing ethics, the Email Experience Council (**EEC**) promotes industry knowledge, and various national regulators (FTC in US, ICO in UK) enforce legal standards. Together, these organizations create the rules governing email.