how to detect email sent is being read using php

Posted on 3rd Sep 2023 00:00:00 in

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Detecting whether an email has been read (also known as email tracking) is typically done using tracking pixels or web beacons in the HTML content of the email. When the recipient opens the email and loads the images, the tracking pixel makes a request to a server, which logs the request and indicates that the email has been read. However, it's important to note that email tracking may raise privacy concerns and may not always be reliable, as many email clients and services block external images by default.

Here's a basic example of how you might implement email tracking using PHP:

Create a Tracking Pixel:

You need to embed a small transparent image (pixel) into the email's HTML content. When the image is loaded, it will make a request to your server.

html
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Create a PHP Script to Handle Tracking:

Create a PHP script (e.g., track.php) on your server to handle tracking. This script will log the request and record that the email has been opened. You can use a database or a log file to store this information.

php
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// Log the email open event or store it in your database
$emailId = $_GET['email_id'];
$timestamp = date('Y-m-d H:i:s');

// Store this data in your database or log file
// For example, you can insert it into a table with columns for email_id and timestamp

// Send a 1x1 transparent GIF image
header('Content-Type: image/gif');
echo base64_decode('R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAP///wAAACwAAAAAAQABAAACAkQBADs=');
exit();
?>
Send Tracked Emails:

When you send an email, include the tracking pixel in the email's HTML content, as shown in step 1. Make sure that the src attribute of the image points to your track.php script.

Analyze the Tracking Data:

After sending tracked emails, you can analyze the data collected in your database or log files to determine which emails have been opened and when.

Keep in mind that email tracking is not foolproof, as many email clients block external images or have privacy settings that prevent tracking. Additionally, email tracking may raise privacy concerns and legal issues, so it's important to inform recipients that you are using tracking and provide them with an option to opt out if required by local regulations. Always be mindful of privacy and ethical considerations when implementing email tracking.