> > I guess debian-isp is not a good forum for a discussion about internals > of RBL databases. One point, which could be useful for Debian ISPs here > is that Osirusoft's database uses unfair methods to fight spam > and blocks whole networks without proper explanation. The decision > to use that database or not is in the hands of this list's subscribers. >
As you said... I am not forcing (nor CAN i force) people to use a particular RBL. Everyone has the freedom to choose. But my point is: I am exposing and bringing to light something that I think and feel is not right, so that other admins can make an informed decision as to what they want to do. And I think that with the information that has been revealed... that Osirusoft is running it's own secret private blacklist... some admins may decide AGAINST using Osirusoft's RBL, and select another RBL with an open policy, transparent and clear listing and removal process, and one that sticks to what it says. And I also provided an alternative solution to those currently using Osirusoft's RBL and may want to try a different RBL...there is a big list of RBLs at http://www.declude.com/JunkMail/Support/ip4r.htm . They all have comments and information by the author. I sincerely hope that some admins are taking into consideration the new information I've provided, and are at least considering testing another RBL to replace Osirusoft.com I only said I choose ordb.org because they look professional.... every open relay and IP that is tested has an evidence file... it clearly shows that it relays, the time and date that it relayed, and when it is scheduled for a re-test, so it can be removed if it is fixed. There is no "secret" adding of netblocks... no "faking" things because all IPs have an example spam and clear listing/delisting/re-testing date. I choose Spamcop.net because of the same reason... each IP that is added to the RBL has an evidence file and example spam. You can actually see what spam was sent from each IP, so there is no "secretly adding" IPs because someone doesn't like an ISP or is biased. Also, Spamcop.net is run by a number of people and the community, and they even have their own newsgroup at news.spamcop.net, which is a FRIENDLY place to be (go take a look for yourself). If there is a problem with a listing, you can post a message, and the many moderators there will take a look and fix things for you. There are other lists like the above ones... we just started using visi.com's RBL, again because they list an IP only when it really sends spam... and after 60 days it is removed, because it may be fixed already. IPs can also be removed by the admins if they found their IP listed. None of the lists we use block large netblocks of IPs... because there is just too much chance for good people to be blocked within the large netblock. Have a look... nearly all the problems concerning RBLs are centered around the ones that block large netblocks, countries, and so on. Very rarely are the problems focused on the RBLs that are more conservative. Anyway, I always STRONGLY suggest that before you start using an RBL, that you read up on what policies they have, how open and transparent they are, and all that. Go to the RBL's webpage, and see the information for yourself (http://www.declude.com/JunkMail/Support/ip4r.htm has links to all the RBL's webpages).
