Snowshoe spam
Snowshoe Spam Definition
Snowshoe spam is a deceptive tactic used by spammers to distribute unsolicited bulk messages while evading detection by spam filters. Instead of sending large volumes of spam from a single source, snowshoe spam spreads the spam load across multiple IP addresses and domains. This distribution of spam across various sources makes it appear as if the volume of messages from each source is low, resembling the distribution of weight on snowshoes.
How Snowshoe Spam Works
Snowshoe spam is designed to bypass traditional spam filters that often target high-volume sources. Spammers achieve this by sending out relatively low volumes of spam from a large number of IP addresses and domains. By spreading the spam load, attackers attempt to fly under the radar and make it more challenging for spam filters to detect and block their activities.
In a snowshoe spam campaign, spammers typically utilize compromised systems or botnets to execute their distributed spam campaigns. A botnet is a network of private computers infected with malicious software, enabling them to be controlled as a group without their owners' knowledge. By using this network of compromised systems, spammers can distribute the spam load while minimizing the likelihood of being traced back to a single source.
Prevention Tips
To protect against snowshoe spam, it is crucial to implement and regularly update spam filtering systems capable of detecting and blocking these deceptive techniques. Here are some prevention tips:
Utilize Robust Spam Filtering: Implement a robust spam filtering system that can effectively identify and block snowshoe spam. These systems should have advanced algorithms and techniques capable of detecting low-volume spam from various sources.
IP and Domain Reputation Lists: Use IP reputation lists and domain reputation services to identify and block suspicious sources. These reputation lists and services help identify IP addresses and domains associated with known spamming activities, allowing you to proactively block them.
Email Authentication: Encourage the use of email authentication methods like SPF (Sender Policy Framework), DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail), and DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance). These authentication methods help verify the authenticity of the sender's domain, reducing the chances of snowshoe spam campaigns being successful.
By implementing these prevention measures, organizations can enhance their defenses against snowshoe spam and minimize the impact of unsolicited bulk messages on their systems and users.
Related Terms
- Spam Filtering: Systems and techniques designed to identify and block unsolicited and unwanted messages, including snowshoe spam.
- Botnets: Networks of private computers infected with malicious software that enables them to be controlled as a group without their owners' knowledge.