> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://help.anymailfinder.com/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# How does Anymail Finder handle catch-all domains?

Catch-all domains are one of the most challenging cases in email verification.

# What are catch-all domains - and why are they tricky?

A catch-all domain is configured to accept emails sent to **any address**, even if the mailbox doesn't actually exist.

For example:
* john@company.com → ${color}[#00a250](ACCEPTED)
* john123@company.com → ${color}[#00a250](ACCEPTED)

Because the mail server accepts any address, **basic SMTP checks alone can't distinguish real inboxes from fake ones**.
This is why many verification tools label emails on these domains as catch-all, risky, or unknown.

# How does Anymail Finder verify emails on catch-all domains?

When Anymail Finder detects a catch-all domain, it applies **additional verification signals beyond standard SMTP checks** to assess deliverability at the address level.

**Example:**

anymailfinder.com is configured as a catch-all domain:

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/2/d/5/e/2d5efafd2ec2d600/screenshot-2025-05-30-alle-093_s65jpl.png =800x225)

Both emails are on the same catch-all domain, but only one shows sufficient deliverability signals.
Simpler tools would label both as RISKY or both as VALID.
**Anymail Finder differentiates between them with confidence.**

# Can I trust VALID results on catch-all domains?

**Yes.** When Anymail Finder marks an email as **VALID**, it means we've detected strong signals that it can receive emails, even on a catch-all domain.

If we can't confirm deliverability with confidence, the email is returned as **RISKY** instead of guessing.

# Need help?

If you have questions about catch-all domains or verification results, feel free to reach out to our support team.
We're here to help!