If you’re relying on SendGrid for email delivery, having your account placed under review or suspended can feel like hitting a brick wall. Whether you’re a startup sending newsletters or a developer integrating transactional emails, it’s crucial to understand why this happens—and more importantly—how to prevent it.
Let’s break down the common reasons why SendGrid might flag your account:
1. High Spam Complaint Rates
One of the top triggers for account reviews is a spike in spam complaints. If recipients click “Report Spam” on your emails, it negatively impacts your sender reputation.
Common causes:
- Sending unsolicited emails
- Poor list hygiene
- Misleading subject lines
Tip: Use double opt-in and let users unsubscribe easily.
2. High Bounce Rates
When your emails are bouncing too often (invalid or non-existent addresses), it signals to SendGrid that your list may not be clean.
Causes:
- Purchased or outdated email lists
- Typos or fake emails
Tip: Regularly validate and clean your email lists.
3. Sending Unsolicited or Bulk Marketing Emails
SendGrid is strict about permission-based email. If you’re sending to people who didn’t explicitly opt in, you’re violating their Terms of Service.
Tip: Stick to permission-based marketing and avoid scraping or buying email lists.
4. Sudden Spike in Email Volume
If you suddenly go from sending 100 to 10,000 emails a day without warming up your account or IP, it could look suspicious.
Tip: Use a ramp-up strategy when scaling your email volume.
5. Low Engagement Rates
If your emails are consistently ignored (low open/click-through rates), it tells ISPs and SendGrid that your emails aren’t wanted.
Tip: Segment your list and send relevant, personalized content.
6. Authentication Issues (SPF/DKIM/DMARC Not Set Up)
Improper email authentication can lead to your emails being flagged as spoofed or phishing attempts.
Tip: Make sure to set up SPF, DKIM, and DMARC correctly for your domain.
7. Phishing or Suspicious Content
If your content contains phishing-like elements (e.g., fake login links, suspicious URLs), your account can be immediately flagged or banned.
Tip: Avoid misleading content and ensure all links go to trusted domains.
8. Abuse Reports from Recipients
If users directly report your emails as abusive or malicious, SendGrid will take action quickly.
Tip: Always include clear branding, opt-out options, and contact info in your emails.
9. Incomplete or Suspicious Account Information
Accounts with missing, fake, or unverifiable info may be placed under review as a precaution.
Tip: Provide real, accurate details during account registration and verification.
10. Secure Passwords and API Keys
Rotate all API keys and change passwords for your account and associated users. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
Additionally, to prevent future account compromises, we recommend implementing the following:
- Manage IP access in your Account Settings and add authorized IP addresses.
- Secure your website and applications, ensuring all software is up to date.
- Verify that your applications or Twilio SendGrid integrations are properly secured and running the latest software versions; this includes content management systems, plugins, and frameworks.
- Review and secure your website permissions to ensure no SendGrid API keys are exposed.
- Consider hiring a third-party security company to help implement additional security measures.
