What is a trap cluster?

A trap cluster is a concentrated group of spamtraps hidden within the same segment domain group or acquisition source. Instead of hitting a single trap you hit multiple at once which signals systemic list failure rather than an isolated mistake. Trap clusters usually indicate purchased data scraping co registration feeds or old legacy imports. Because these clusters trigger repeated hits in a short window they lead to rapid blocklist escalation especially with operators like Spamhaus that interpret clusters as evidence of intentional or negligent sending.