Alibaba Mail sends unusual logon alerts when it detects a logon from an unfamiliar IP address. This topic explains why you receive these alerts and how to manage them.
Why you receive unusual logon alerts
The system sends an unusual logon alert when it detects a logon from an IP address that differs from those you frequently use. It classifies the new IP address as unfamiliar and flags the logon as unusual. This classification is dynamic: as you log on repeatedly from the same IP address, the system stops treating it as unfamiliar.
Solutions for frequent unusual logon alerts
1. Confirm that no other user who shares the mailbox performed the logon.
2. Check whether you previously configured an email client, such as Foxmail or Outlook, while on a business trip. If the client remains active, it automatically connects to the mail server at regular intervals to check for new messages.
3. Verify whether the logon originated from a mobile device. Some mobile carriers assign an IP address based on your account’s home location rather than the device’s current location.
4. Determine whether you configured another email service, such as Tencent Mail or NetEase Mail, to fetch emails from your Alibaba Mail account.
5. Have you enabled the inquiry service on the Alibaba Cloud International Website? You can query your current IP address at https://ip138.com/. If the result shows an Alibaba address, this typically indicates that the inquiry service is enabled.
6. If you cannot confirm that the logon activity is legitimate, your account may be compromised. Change your password immediately.
Important notes for using Alibaba Mail
1. Create a strong password for your mailbox using a combination of numbers, letters, and special characters. Avoid sequential or predictable patterns. Keep your password secure.
2. Avoid using your Alibaba Mail account on public, untrusted, or registration-only websites to prevent it from being used for malicious purposes.
3. Regularly scan your computer for viruses.
4. If you use an email client, enable Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption. Use the following server ports: SMTP: 465, POP3: 995, and IMAP: 993.
5. Set up IP logon restrictions and an IP blacklist. For more information, see How to set IP logon restrictions and an IP blacklist?. Also, set a security password for third-party clients to enhance security.
Can I disable unusual logon alerts?
To disable unusual logon alerts, go to Settings > Account and Security > Account Security > Unusual Logon Notifications and select Not Receive.
To re-enable the alerts, go to Settings and select Receive.
Note: If you disable these alerts, you will no longer receive notifications for unusual logons. You are responsible for any security risks to your account. We do not recommend disabling unusual logon alerts.