Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI) is an emerging standard aimed at enhancing security and trust in email communication by enabling organizations to display their logo directly in the recipient's email client. This technology offers visual verification of the sender's identity, making it easier for users to distinguish legitimate emails from fraudulent ones. It leverages existing email authentication standards like SPF, DKIM, and DMARC, adding an extra layer of trust through visual identification.
How BIMI Works
BIMI operates by allowing domains that meet certain security standards to publish a special DNS record. This record contains a link to the location where the organization's logo is stored in SVG format. When an email client receives a message from a domain with a BIMI record, it verifies whether the email complies with DMARC policies at the "reject" or "quarantine" level. If the email passes these checks, the client may display the sender's logo alongside the message, signaling to the user that the email comes from a verified and trustworthy source.
Benefits of BIMI for Organizations
- Increased Trust and Security: A logo as a visual identifier helps build users' trust in the authenticity of received emails.
- Enhanced Brand Visibility: Displaying the logo in the inbox contributes to better brand visibility and recognition.
- Encouragement of Security Practices: Implementing BIMI motivates organizations to adhere to best practices in email security, such as properly setting up and configuring SPF, DKIM, and DMARC.
Implementing BIMI
Implementing BIMI involves several steps:
- Ensuring Email Communication Complies with SPF, DKIM, and DMARC Standards: BIMI requires emails to pass verification through these technologies.
- Preparing the Logo in SVG Format: The logo must meet BIMI specifications, including size and format requirements.
- Publishing a BIMI Record in DNS: This record includes a link to the logo and other relevant information needed for its display.
- Testing and Monitoring: After implementation, it's important to monitor email delivery and how email clients respond to BIMI records.
Challenges and Limitations
While BIMI offers numerous benefits, there are also challenges and limitations to consider. Not all email services currently support BIMI, so the logo may not be displayed to all users. Another potential challenge is the strictness of the security standards required, which may be difficult for some organizations to meet.
