Short answer: Look up your IP at barracudacentral.org/lookups; if it's listed, fill in the free removal request form on the same site. Before you do, stop the spam source and make sure the IP has a valid reverse DNS (PTR) record.
Why Barracuda lists IPs
BRBL is an automated reputation list based on data from Barracuda's installed base and its spam traps. The most common reasons for a listing:
- Spam sent through compromised mailboxes or infected devices.
- Sending mail directly from an IP with no reverse DNS (PTR), or with a generic/dynamic-looking one (such as
203-0-113-10.dsl.example.net). - Bulk mail to lists without consent.
Step-by-step removal
- Look it up: Barracuda limits anonymous cloud queries, so our blacklist check doesn't include this list. Use barracudacentral.org/lookups.
- Stop the source: review the mail queue and sending logs, and reset passwords of suspicious accounts.
- Fix reverse DNS: the IP's PTR record should point to your mail server's name (for example
mail.yourcompany.com), and that name should resolve back to the same IP. PTR is set by the owner of the IP, your host or ISP. - Request removal: fill in the "Removal Request" form on barracudacentral.org with the IP, your contact details and a short explanation.
- Wait and re-check: once reviewed, the IP is removed, usually quickly (often within a day).
Things to watch out for
- Removal is free.
- If you request removal before the spam source is stopped, the IP will be relisted quickly and later requests are harder to get approved.
- On a shared hosting IP the problem may come from another customer; in that case your host needs to submit the request.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay to get off the Barracuda list?
No. Barracuda reviews removal requests free of charge.
Where do I set my PTR record?
Not in your domain's DNS. Reverse DNS is set by the owner of the IP address, in your hosting, cloud or ISP control panel, or by their support team.