How to Configure MailScanner in cPanel
MailScanner is an anti-spam and anti-virus suite integrated into cPanel. It combines several open-source utilities including MailScanner, SpamAssassin, and ClamAV. These tools work together to dramatically reduce the amount of spam and viruses that reach your inbox.
Accessing MailScanner
- Log in to your cPanel account.
- Scroll down to the Email section.
- Click on MailScanner Configuration.
Key Configuration Options
- SpamAssassin Settings: Adjust the spam score threshold. Lower scores catch more spam but may increase false positives. Recommended default: 5.0.
- Virus Scanning (ClamAV): Enable virus scanning to block emails containing malicious attachments or code.
- High Scoring Spam: Define stricter actions for emails with very high spam scores (e.g., auto-delete or quarantine).
- Low Scoring Spam: Choose whether to deliver, tag, or quarantine emails that are suspicious but not confirmed spam.
- Quarantine Management: Review quarantined emails via the MailScanner interface and release legitimate messages if needed.
- Whitelist/Blacklist: Add trusted senders to the whitelist and block known spammers via the blacklist.
Best Practices
- Keep the spam score threshold balanced (around 5) to minimize false positives.
- Regularly check your quarantine folder to ensure legitimate emails are not blocked.
- Whitelist important contacts to guarantee delivery.
- Enable virus scanning for all accounts to maximize protection.
- Update your settings periodically as spam tactics evolve.
✔ Tip: MailScanner works best when combined with good email practices.
Avoid opening suspicious attachments, and encourage users to report spam that slips through.