> The domain has a null MX record (indicating it doesn't accept email)
Not quite true, SMTP will use the A record if there is no MX.
In this case, "null MX record" means MX exists, but does not specify a valid server:
$ host -t mx example.com example.com mail is handled by 0 .
In this case, "null MX record" means MX exists, but does not specify a valid server:
Senders should not fall back on the A record in this case.