Many mailboxes now use security protocols to protect recipients from spam and malicious messages. One such practice involves email providers automatically opening and checking emails before delivering them. A bot scans the content and clicks every link to ensure it’s safe. Once the email passes this security check, it is delivered to the recipient’s inbox.
Some subscribers, particularly those with strict security settings such as .edu or .gov domains, may trigger automatic opens or clicks when receiving emails. This is due to their security filters, which scan links and images for safety before delivering the email. This process can generate false opens or clicks, and there’s little senders can do to prevent it.
To identify auto-clicking subscribers, you can include a hidden link in the email. If it’s clicked, you’ll know the subscriber’s system is automatically scanning the content.
To reduce automatic clicks and opens, encourage subscribers with strict domains to use personal email addresses. Additionally, use HTTPS links, avoid overly promotional content, maintain a clean email list, and avoid typing full URLs in the email. Instead, embed links in text, buttons, or images.