How to Configure Spam Filters in WHM

Spam filtering is an important part of email management for your clients. WHM provides tools to configure spam filtering at the server level, while clients can fine-tune settings within their own cPanel using SpamAssassin.

Enabling SpamAssassin

1. In WHM, go to Email then Apache SpamAssassin
2. Enable SpamAssassin if it isn't already active
3. Configure the spam score threshold - emails scoring above this number are flagged or rejected
4. Save your settings

Configuring Spam Threshold

The default spam score threshold is typically 5. Lowering this makes the filter more aggressive (may cause false positives), while raising it is more permissive (may let some spam through). A value between 4 and 7 is recommended for most setups.

BoxTrapper

WHM also includes BoxTrapper - a challenge-response system that requires senders to verify themselves before their email is delivered. It's effective but can frustrate legitimate senders. You can enable or disable it per account from the Feature Manager.

Client-Level Spam Control

Once SpamAssassin is enabled server-wide, your clients can manage their own spam settings within cPanel under the Email section. They can whitelist senders, blacklist domains, and adjust their personal spam score threshold.

Monitoring Spam Activity

• Check the mail queue regularly for signs of compromised accounts sending spam
• A sudden spike in outbound email from one account may indicate a hack or compromised script

For help with advanced spam configuration, contact our support team.