The practice of sending messages indicating that they are sent by one party, but authorized and transmitted by another, is a common digital communication technique. For example, an administrative assistant might send an email message that appears to originate from their manager’s email address, clearly indicating it was sent by the assistant on the manager’s authorization.
This functionality is essential in many organizational settings, enabling delegation and efficient workflow management. Its existence traces back to early email server configurations, evolving alongside the increasing complexity of business operations and the need for transparent communication within hierarchical structures. This method offers a clear audit trail and reduces potential confusion about the message’s originator versus the sender.