Home / Definitions / Blacklist

Blacklist

Webopedia Staff
Last Updated May 24, 2021 7:36 am

(blak list) (n.) In Internet terminology, a generic name for a list of e-mail addresses or IP addresses that are originating with known spammers. Individuals and enterprises can use blacklists to filter out unwanted e-mails, as most e-mail applications today have filtering capabilities.

Also referred to as a blackhole list, the blacklist also can include ISPs that allow known spammers to use their services. Compare with RBL, a blackhole list maintained by MAPS LLC.

(v.) To place an email address or an IP address on a list of known spammers.