Overview
This article explains why Auth0 email links may display unexpected URL formatting when a custom email provider, such as Amazon Simple Email Service (SES), SMTP, or Microsoft 365, is configured. Users might observe that links in Auth0 emails, like password reset links, do not use the standard Auth0 domain format.
For example, an Auth0 password reset link typically has this format:
https://<Auth0_domain>/u/email-verification?ticket=<ticket_id>#
However, end-users might receive an email with a URL link that appears unfamiliar, varying based on the email provider and its services. The following is a generic example:
https://<non-auth0-domain>/pathing/ff-7iiHu6JAo5basAnxNdYxbQneDj4f-zOe9vL77vdwWP3Th265naz_60LE_CgNzdNeR02-bI72EIAtX4K6JtkYcz3wEAAP__zYxOlw...
Applies To
- SMTP provider
- Custom Domain
Cause
The configured custom email provider overrides the original Auth0 link, replacing it with its own custom link that subsequently redirects to the Auth0 URL. This behavior is often a feature of the email provider, such as link tracking or URL customization services.
Solution
This behavior is typically due to configurations within the custom email provider, and the specific method to alter this varies by provider. Auth0 cannot directly modify these provider-generated URLs. It is recommended to consult the email provider’s documentation or contact their support for guidance on link formatting or tracking features.
For instance, a service like Amazon Web Services (AWS) SES offers features such as click tracking that can result in similar URL wrapping. If configured, AWS SES will encapsulate the Auth0-generated link within its own URL. The AWS documentation on configuring custom open and click tracking domains provides details on this feature. Similar functionalities may exist with other email providers.