IP reputation lookup to prevent malicious traffic determines how people will view a computer, router, server, or phone on the internet. Like a person’s “good” or “bad” reputation, an IP address will gain (or lose) its reputation based on the types of activities it engages in over time. For example, if an IP address sends spam, hosts malware, or is involved in other malicious activities, it will likely be blocked by mailbox providers, security vendors, and website owners.

This is because cybersecurity solutions look at an IP’s history to determine if it is safe. The longer an IP has been associated with malicious activity, the more damage it can cause.

A good reputation makes email delivery faster, protects users from phishing scams and other threats, and improves website performance by blocking spam and bots. It also reduces fraud, prevents chargebacks, and improves user experience for everyone.

IP Reputation Lookup: A Critical Tool to Block Malicious Traffic

Unfortunately, cybercriminals are increasingly able to manipulate and degrade reputations by using tools like residential virtual private networks, cloud infrastructure, and automated bots. Criminals can use DNS or NTP amplification attacks to bombard servers with large numbers of requests, ruining the reputations of their target IP addresses. They can also create thousands of fake accounts on forums, social media sites, or other platforms to frame a victim and sully the reputation of their targeted IPs.

To improve your IP reputation, contact the service provider that assigns you your IP addresses and request a clean slate. Ask for IP investigation services that reveal if the IP has been associated with malware or spam and recommend ways to fix the problem.