Managing SPAM Filters in DirectAdmin
Summary
This guide explains how to create and manage SPAM filters in DirectAdmin. SPAM filters allow you to block unwanted e‑mails based on sender, subject, or specific keywords before they reach your inbox.
Overview
SPAM filters work independently from SpamAssassin. They apply simple rules that block or redirect messages based on matching patterns. These filters are useful for stopping persistent spam senders or filtering messages with specific subjects.
Requirements
- DirectAdmin user-level access
- A domain with e‑mail enabled
- Basic understanding of what you want to block
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Access SPAM Filters
- Log in to DirectAdmin
- Go to E‑mail Manager → SPAM Filters
- Select the domain you want to manage
2. Create a New Filter
You can filter based on:
- Sender
- Subject
- E‑mail header
- Message body keywords
To create a filter:
- Click “Create New Filter”
- Choose the filter type (From, Subject, Contains, etc.)
- Enter the text or address to match
- Click “Create”
Examples:
- Block a sender: spammer@example.com
- Block a domain: *@spamdomain.net
- Block subject keywords: “free money”, “urgent reply”
3. Filter Actions
Depending on server configuration, filters may:
- Delete the message
- Send it to the spam folder
- Redirect it to another address
4. Delete a Filter
- Go to SPAM Filters
- Find the filter in the list
- Click “Delete”
- Confirm removal
Common Use Cases
Block Persistent Spammers
- Add their e‑mail address or domain to a filter
Block Specific Keywords
- Useful for repeated scam messages
Prevent Fake Invoices or Phishing
- Filter subjects like “Invoice Attached” or “Payment Required”
Troubleshooting
Filter Not Working
- Ensure the filter text matches exactly
- Check for extra spaces or incorrect capitalization
- Confirm the filter type is correct (Subject vs From)
Too Many Messages Being Blocked
- Remove overly broad filters (example: blocking “free” may block legitimate mail)
- Use more specific keywords
Filters Conflicting with SpamAssassin
- SPAM Filters run before SpamAssassin
- Adjust or remove filters if they override SpamAssassin behavior
Legitimate E‑mails Missing
- Check the spam folder
- Review all active filters
- Remove or refine filters that are too aggressive
Related Articles
- SpamAssassin Setup
- E‑mail Accounts
- Forwarders
- MX Records
- E‑mail Tracking