In computing, a black list is a list of items that a security algorithm or filter will always block. If you set up a filter in your email client to explicitly block the address of someone spamming you, for example, you’ve created a simple black list. Other black lists are automated, such as a black list that bans IP addresses at the server level after too many intrusion attempts are discovered from that IP address. Black lists are also used to filter content; when companies block entertainment or adult-content websites, they’re using a black list to restrict employee internet access.
- By Jason Fitzpatrick on 11/26/13