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20 Email Subject Lines That Are Likely To Trigger Spam Filters

Written by Dr. Scott O. Baird | October 19, 2024

Avoid Spammy Language!!

Because it is the first thing your targeted recipient sees, the email subject line is the most important part of your email. If your subject line is not brilliant, it is the ONLY thing about your email they will see. If the subject line doesn’t do its job, your email will remain unopened, ignored, weak, and ineffective. Boost the quality of your subject line, and you improve the efficacy of your email campaign. 

Your email subject line should Avoid Spam Trigger Words. Steer clear of using words and phrases commonly associated with spam, such as “Free,” “Guaranteed,” “Earn Money,” etc.    

By avoiding spam language, you reduce the likelihood of your emails being flagged by spam filters.

This list provides examples of what to avoid. You may also want to look at lists that stimulate curiosity, or that stand out using humor. You may also want to take the single-question quiz that tests your ability to recognize spam language or a separate quiz that helps to identify sincerity and warmth.

Reviewing lists that model best practices (and worst practices), can stimulate your creativity. It can help you get to ‘brilliant’ faster.

The ebook, From Boring to Brilliant Transform Your Email Open Rates with These Subject Line Tips, provides useful information and instructional guidance about creating subject lines. It includes 5 essential principles related to email subject line creation. It also provides 13 suggestions for developing better email subject lines. Suggestions are ranked in order of importance. Choose two or three suggestions that will give you the most impact and get started improving your email marketing results right away!

 

20 Email Subject Lines That Are Likely To Trigger Spam Filters 

 

  1. "Congratulations! You've won a FREE iPhone!!!"
  2. "Urgent Act Now to Claim Your $1,000 Gift Card!" (47)
  3. "This is not a scam! Click here for easy cash!"
  4. "🔥 Limited Time Offer Make $10,000 in a Week!"
  5. "Lose 50 Pounds in Just 7 Days—Guaranteed!"
  6. "Final Notice Your Account Will Be Closed!"
  7. "You've Been PreApproved for a $500,000 Loan!"
  8. "Increase Your Credit Score by 200 Points Overnight!"
  9. "100% Guaranteed Work from Home and Make Millions!"
  10. "Get Rich Quick with This Simple Trick!"
  11. "Click Here for Instant Access to Secret Millionaire Tips!"
  12. "Your $1,000,000 is Waiting! Just Confirm Your Details!"
  13. "💰💰Double Your Income in 24 Hours—No Strings Attached!"
  14. "Limited Offer, Buy One, Get Three Free!"
  15. "Congratulations! You’ve Been Chosen for a FREE Vacation!"
  16. "Make $500 a Day Without Leaving Your Bed!"
  17. "Unlock the Secret to Eternal Youth—Click Now!"
  18. "Act Now! Your Inheritance is Waiting!"
  19. "Urgent Your Account Has Been Compromised—Verify Immediately!"
  20. "💵 Free Money Just for Opening This Email!"

These subject lines are filled with spammy language, exaggerated claims, and deceptive tactics, which are all red flags for both email users and spam filters.