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Implementing Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance (DMARC) may seem straightforward in theory, involving the publication of a DMARC record in DNS. However, as businesses expand and email systems become more intricate, ensuring email security and avoiding false spam markings becomes a complex challenge for security teams. This article aims to guide readers through best practices when advancing DMARC policies, progressing from p=none to p=quarantine to p=reject.Before advancing DMARC policies, several considerations are highlighted. Rushing into policy changes without understanding DMARC standards and assessing all email sources is cautioned against. Prioritizing DMARC alignment involves ensuring that known email sources match the domain specified in authentication mechanisms (SPF and DKIM). Analyzing the DMARC compliance rate is crucial, with a recommendation that a rate above 98% indicates readiness for policy advancement, although exceptions may apply, such as unauthorized email sources.The article emphasizes the dynamic nature of the email ecosystem and the need to evolve security measures to protect against evolving threats. Progressing DMARC policies is likened to upgrading an email security system to ensure that only legitimate emails pass through.Key best practices for progressing DMARC policies are outlined. Understanding the implications of DMARC policies, including levels such as p=none, p=quarantine, and p=reject, is essential for comprehensive protection against phishing and spoofing attacks. The optional but critical DMARC pct tag specifies the percentage of emails subjected to authentication tests, allowing a gradual transition to stricter policies. The article recommends a deliberate and phased approach to policy progression over several weeks, considering factors like policy level and percentage.After achieving p=reject, maintaining DMARC enforcement involves regular checks on SPF records, monitoring DKIM key rotation, and leveraging reports for incident management.In conclusion, navigating the complex landscape of DMARC authentication and policy progression is acknowledged as challenging. The article encourages readers to trust in solutions like those provided by DuoCircle to bolster defenses against malicious attacks in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.