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UBC Mathematics: MathNet FAQ [Vacation Messages]


UBC Mathematics: MathNet FAQ [Vacation Messages]


Question: How do I set up autoreply messages (like vacation messages)?
Author: Joseph Tam
Date: Sep 17, 2025

Before you install an Email auto-reply message, you should read this FAQ item regarding the issues involved with installing one:

What are the risks of using an Email auto-reply?

There are 2 ways to install auto-replies:

  1. Use the MathNet User Services web page:
    1. Log in using your username and password to the MathNet User Services site:
      https://www.math.ubc.ca/php/MathNet/admin/?rd=Forward
      If it does not recognize you, contact the UBC Mathematics IT Staff
    2. Select "Set up auto-reply message".
    3. Enter subject and text of your reply message (or use default).
    4. Enter your password again at the bottom and press the "Do It!" button.
    5. Log out.
    6. To test, send a message to yourself from another Email address. Caveat: the autoreply system will limit auto-replies to the same sender to one per dap.
    7. To deactivate, log in as above, select the "Remove any Email auto-reply/forwarding" button, then enter the password at the bottom and press "Do It!" button.
  2. Use the command-line:
    1. Log in via ssh to our public MathNet Unix server.
    2. Run the command:
      env EDITOR=editor-of-choice vacation
    3. Enter your message (including Subject header, if any). For example,
      Subject: I am away

      I am away attending the Burning Man festival. When I return,
      and have sobered up, I will attend to your mail.
    4. To deactivate, run the command:
      rm ~/.forward