Domain Name Security
The security of domain name registrations is an increasing concern for domain
name registrants and registrars such as WDBC. However, there are preventative
steps you can take to increase the security of your domain name registrations.
Domain Security Topics
With common dot-com names in short supply, hijackers and slammers actively seek out domain names and come up with new schemes to “steal” domain name registrations all the time. Some opportunistic people also make a practice of picking up a domain name at the moment it is deleted in order to direct traffic to a new site. This practice most often occurs when a domain name holder inadvertently neglects to renew the domain name.
Domain names can be switched or transferred from one registrar to another
without the knowledge or consent of the domain name holder. This practice is
sometimes known as slamming. In some cases, companies that are not domain name
registrars have falsely represented themselves as WDBC or as the registrar
who currently manages your domain registration information. Customers who respond
to the instructions may reveal credit card information or unintentionally
transfer
the domain name.
In other cases, disgruntled or former employees who have access to your account through your user name and password may transfer your domain name registration without your knowledge.
As of summer of 2004, ICANN has adopted a new policy on domain name transfers that many believe may have the effect of increasing unauthorized transfers of domain names. Under the new policy, domain name registrations may be transferred away without confirmation from your current registrar.
Hijacking involves the unauthorized transfer of a valid domain name from the current registrant. Domain name hijacking is accomplished through a variety of methods. Some unscrupulous people falsify their identity in an effort to portray themselves as legitimate registrants of the domain name(s) they intend to steal. This false information is used to request that the registrar transfer the domain name. Once the domain name is transferred, it can be used to traffic spam, set up pornographic Web sites, or support criminal activities.
Three Domain Security Products
WDBC provides three different domain name security products that can assist
you in protecting your company or organization's online real estate identity
from unintentional non-renewals, unauthorized transfers by domain slammers
or hijackers in addition to our account management security and control measures.
Auto-Renew
The auto-renew feature, enabled by default and provided for FREE for each
domain you register with us, can be used to renew your domain name if you
do not receive our renewal notices due to outdated contact information or
if you unintentionally forget to renew your domain before its expiration date.
It's usefulness in preventing loss of a domain name,
however is limited if
your
credit card information on file expires during your registration term. You
can turn
on
(or off) auto-renew
at any
time for each domain in your account by logging into the account
management area.
TransferLock
prevents unauthorized transfers of your domain names to other registrars. This
service prevents your domain name from being transferred away from your WDBC
account unless you first securely log in to your account to turn off TransferLock
and allow the transfer. Managing the TransferLock feature is easy. Should you
wish to turn it off (or on again) at any time, simply log into you account
with your username and password. The cost is $0.00 per year per domain, in
other words, its FREE! Sign up for this service by logging
into your WDBC account and selecting the "Domain Locking" link as you manage
any domain in your account. For new accounts, TransferLock is enabled by default.
NameSafe
Designed
to provide the ultimate in domain name security, NameSafe
prevents account ownership updates, name server updates, contact updates, moving
domains between accounts, and registrar transfers without authorization from
the account owner through e-mail. Domains using NameSafe will be under locked
status with the registry. The cost is $9.99 per domain name per year. Sign
up for this product through the initial domain
registration process or by logging
into your WDBC account and adding new services.
If you need any assistance or have any questions regarding these services access our support center.
Actions You Can Take To Protect Your Domains
Use and/or Purchase Our Domain Security Products. Our domain
security products can be invaluable in protecting your online real estate
identity. TransferLock is FREE while NameSafe is available for additional
protection at a nominal fee. These services helps prevent unauthorized transfers
and/or changes to your information.
Renew Early. Renew your domain
name registrations for longer terms to minimize the possibility of a domain
name hijacking incident. By using longer terms, you'll not only ensure that
you hold onto your domain name longer but you can save money in the process
with our multi-year discounts. By renewing early, rather than post phoning
notices you receive from us via email helps prevent unintended lapses should
you forget your anniversary date.
Use Auto-Renew Feature. You can also use Auto Renew, as
another layer of protection, to prevent an unintended renewal lapse should
you miss
a renewal deadline. This feature is enabled by default for all new registrations
and is FREE. It can be turned off (and on) at any time by logging into your WDBC
account manager. Just make sure your credit card information is always up
to date.
Ensure Contact Information Is Accurate. Keep your Account contact information current so that any critical information about your domain name registration can be communicated to you and to reduce the chance of unauthorized modifications or transfers. Your contact information includes e-mail address, postal address, and telephone number.
Carefully Review Information About Your Domain Services.
Examine all information you receive about your domain name registration carefully.
If you receive suspicious e-mail or postal mail renewal notices that are not
from WDBC, or if you notice that your WHOIS information has been altered, contact
us immediately. Unfortunately there are some unscrupulous businesses out there
that are willing to take you and your domain name for a ride, often at a considerably
higher renewal cost than WDBC.
