Everyone

How do I stop fake or bot sign-ups on my opt-in page?

Use double opt-in so only confirmed addresses join, add a hidden honeypot field or a bot check to the form, and remove unconfirmed or bouncing addresses regularly.

Defenses

  • 1Double opt-inOnly confirmed emails.
  • 2Honeypot fieldBots fill hidden fields.
  • 3Bot checkIf spam continues.
  • 4Clean the listRemove bounces and unconfirmed.

Bot sign-ups hurt deliverability and can cost money on tools that charge per contact.

Read the full answer

Magnetbrief opt-in pages include a hidden honeypot field. Mailchimp syncs from Magnetbrief use Mailchimp’s pending status, which triggers its confirmation email for new subscribers.

Common follow-up questions

Will double opt-in reduce sign-ups?

Some people will not confirm, but the list is cleaner.

Should I verify emails?

Verification tools exist; double opt-in covers most needs.

Updated 2026-11-15. General information; not legal, medical or financial advice.