What actions count as negative signals?

Negative engagement signals tell providers that recipients do not want your mail:

Spam complaints are the most damaging. Clicking "Report Spam" or "Mark as Junk" directly tells the provider your mail is unwanted. Deleting without opening suggests the recipient recognized the sender and immediately rejected it.

Consistent ignoring where messages sit unread for extended periods. Unsubscribing, which is healthier than spam complaints but still indicates declining interest. Immediate trash without any interaction.

Moving from inbox to spam is particularly damaging because it represents an active rejection after the message reached the inbox.

Negative signals are complaints filed with the harbor authority. Each one adds to your record, and enough complaints trigger inspections, restrictions, or outright bans.