How to Find Sequential Email Addresses (user1, user2) in a List
To find sequential email addresses, look for runs where the part before the @ is the same word followed by a counting number on one domain, such as user1, user2 and user3. The sequential email address finder does this for a pasted column or uploaded list. You choose the shortest run to flag, see each run with its first address and length, and download the list with a flag column.
A run is a reason to look, not proof that addresses are fake.
Why sequential runs appear in lists
Scripts that submit forms, and people guessing addresses, often produce neat numbered patterns. Some companies also number real mailboxes. Either way, a run of ten numbered addresses on one domain is unusual enough to review before you send or verify.
The by-hand way
- Cut the name before the @ and the domain into separate columns.
- Strip trailing digits from the name to get its stem.
- Sort by domain, then stem, then number.
- Scan for stems that repeat with consecutive numbers.
This is fine for a few hundred rows. On bigger lists the runs are easy to miss.
Step 1: load the list
Upload the list as a CSV or .xlsx, or paste the cells with the header row first. It needs a column of email addresses.
Step 2: set the run length
Choose how many in a row make a run, three by default, and press Find the runs.
Step 3: review and download
Read each run: the word, the domain, the numbers it covers and how long it is. Download the list with a flag column, look at the flagged rows, then check the mailboxes.
For repeat sign-ups by +tag, see strip plus tags from emails.
What this check cannot do
- It finds a word followed by a counting number. Other patterns are not detected.
- Numbered mailboxes at a real company are flagged the same as scripted ones.
- It reads the text of the addresses only and does not test mailboxes.
- What to do with a run is your call.
For sign-ups that cluster in time, the signup burst finder looks at timestamps instead.
One more pass before sending
Flagged runs are the ones most worth testing. Whether a numbered address exists is something only the mail server can answer. Paste the list into the verify page; the first 100 email checks are free with a Google sign-in and need no card. Every row returns valid, risky or invalid with a reason, and nobody on the list is emailed. Bigger lists are covered by bulk email verification and pricing.
Try it now
Paste your list into the sequential email address finder.
Common questions
How do I find sequential email addresses in a list?
Look for addresses where the part before the @ is the same word followed by a counting number on one domain. A sequential finder flags every run and its length.
Are sequential addresses always fake?
No. A company might genuinely use team1, team2 and team3. They are worth a look, not an automatic delete.
Where do such runs come from?
Often scripts that fill forms, or guessed lists. Real mailboxes can also be numbered.
Can I change how long a run has to be?
Yes. You choose how many in a row make a run. Three is the default.
What does the download add?
The list with a flag column, so you can filter flagged rows.
Check your list before you send
Real mailbox checks over SMTP, and nothing is sent to the address. Sign in with Google and your first 100 email checks are free, no card. Plans for bigger lists are on the pricing page.