What is email relay and why is it sometimes abused?
Email relay is when one mail server forwards messages to another on behalf of the sender. It is a normal part of how mail moves across the internet but can be exploited if a server allows open relaying, meaning anyone can send through it. Spammers abuse open relays to hide their identity or distribute bulk mail.
A properly configured relay server is like a secure harbor: only approved ships are allowed to dock and pass messages onward.
Need personalized help?
Get a personalized explanation for your specific email setup. Open an AI assistant with your question pre-loaded — just add your details and send.
Was this answer helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!