Email address verification is a common practice for many email marketing companies. Here, we revisit the topic by clarifying the main differences between validation and verification, and then exploring the most common false beliefs surrounding this process.
Distinguishing Between Email Validation and Verification
The first step is to understand the nuance between email validation and verification, as they are sometimes confused. They are, however, two distinct processes, although often used interchangeably. They serve slightly different purposes and involve separate steps.
Email Validation
Email validation primarily focuses on the first step of checking the structure and syntax of the email address. It ensures that the address is well-constructed.
- Syntax and Structure – Email validation checks if the email address follows a correct structure, i.e., contains an “@” and a valid domain. It ensures that the address is correctly formatted. Example: “user@domain.com”.
- Typing Errors – Validation can also help detect obvious typing mistakes. Example: “user@domin.com” instead of “user@domain.com”.
Email validation does not guarantee that the address is currently in use, active, or that the associated domain is valid. In other words, it can validate a correct email address, but it may belong to an inactive inbox or a non-existent domain.
Email Verification
Email verification goes beyond simple syntax validation. It typically includes all the steps of validation, but also incorporates additional checks.
- Syntax Validation – As in validation, verification begins by ensuring that the email address has a correct structure.
- Domain Availability Check – This involves checking that the domain of the email address is active, accepts new connections, and is set up to receive emails.
- Elimination of Temporary Addresses – Verification may also include detecting temporary or disposable email addresses, often used for spam purposes.
- Duplicate Removal – Some verifications remove duplicates to avoid sending the same message multiple times.
- Data Enrichment – Verification can provide additional information about the email address (domain name, creation date, etc.).
Both processes are important for maintaining the quality of your contact list, but email verification offers a more comprehensive analysis.
5 Misconceptions About Email Verification
1) All Verified Emails are 100% Safe
Verification helps reduce spam or fraud, but it does not fully guarantee that the address is not used for malicious purposes. Some valid addresses may escape verification. Email security depends on other factors such as cybersecurity practices, anti-spam filters, and user vigilance.
Additionally, temporary or disposable addresses, often used by spammers, can appear valid during verification.
2) Email Verification is Invasive
Email verification does not check the content of messages nor does it track user activities. Therefore, it does not constitute a privacy violation.
3) Verified Email Addresses are Always Active
A validated email address does not guarantee that the owner regularly checks their inbox. Addresses can become inactive over time, leading to unread messages. That’s why it’s important to regularly check your lists.
4) Verification Fully Ensures Deliverability
Verification contributes to the good deliverability of your emails, but not entirely since it also depends on how recipients react. If they decide to treat your message as spam or refuse to open it, verification won’t change that.
5) All Verification Services are the Same
Each verification service offers different methods, options, and pricing. The idea is to choose the one that best suits your needs, while ensuring you opt for a reputable and reliable platform like Captain Verify.
Email verification is a crucial step in managing your contact list and in improving the effectiveness of your email marketing campaigns. However, it’s essential to understand that verification does not guarantee total safety, opening, or action by the recipient. Nevertheless, it remains a valuable tool to avoid errors and optimize the quality of your online communications.
