SEM URI

Overview

SEM URI is a domain-level blocklist operated by Spam Eating Monkey (SEM). It is part of the SEM blacklist family that focuses on identifying domains and URIs detected in mail sent to a spamtrap.

SEM URI specifically targets domains and URIs found in the body of unsolicited emails. Like other URI-based blacklists, it examines the content of emails rather than the sending IP address, making it a Right-hand Side Blacklist (RHSBL). Entries are automatically removed after 30 days of not being seen by a spamtrap.

Impacts

This listing occurs at the domain level (not IP level). When your domain is listed on SEM URI, emails containing links to your domain may be flagged or rejected by mail servers that query SEM data.

The impact depends on which mail servers and filters use SEM URI data. While not as widely adopted as URIBL or SURBL, it can still affect deliverability to certain recipients and networks that incorporate SEM data into their filtering decisions.

Mitigation Process

To better understand the potential problems that caused the listing, visit the SEM URI service page or use the SEM Lookup tool to check your domain status. Once you have reviewed, you should then:

1. Find and correct the root cause of the listing (e.g., compromised website, spam-related content, phishing pages, or malware distribution).
2. Stop the spam-triggering activity. Entries are automatically removed after 30 days of not being seen by a spamtrap.
3. Monitor your listing status using the SEM Lookup tool to confirm removal.

Important: The issue must be resolved prior to waiting for automatic expiration. As with all blacklist removals, ensure your website is thoroughly cleaned of any malicious content, implement security measures to prevent future compromises, and maintain good email sending practices. If you are re-listed multiple times, it may become increasingly difficult to achieve removal.