How to remove an IP address from a blacklist

Removal always happens with the operator of the list that named the address. Be wary of anyone who offers to clear your address from every blacklist for a fee, because no third party controls them all.

Steps that apply to most lists

1. Find the list and read its reason. Use the operator's own lookup page, not only a site that summarises many lists.
2. Fix the cause. Clean the server, stop the traffic or close the open relay. These are the common causes.
3. Follow that operator's process. Some lists expire entries on their own, while others need a request from the owner of the address.
4. Give evidence. Say what happened, what you changed and when. Ownership details help if the operator needs to verify you.
5. Watch for a return. Check the address again after a few days. If it comes back, the cause probably is not fixed.

Removing an address from isipsafe

If the reports were accurate, fix the problem and wait. Only the last 30 days count towards a score, and reports count for less as they age, so the score falls on its own once new reports stop.

If the reports are false or malicious, use the contact form with the topic "False positive / delisting". Include the address and explain why the reports are wrong. A person reads every request.

If you filed the report yourself, you can withdraw it from your account or with the clear-address API.

If you run a service behind a shared address

A score describes the address, not the people using it. If yours is shared, explain that in your request, and consider a dedicated address for sending mail or other traffic that depends on reputation.

Questions