Start investing in digital
'real estate'!
Domain name theft occurs. In fact, it occurs on almost a daily basis. Its not only less-valuable domain names being targeted by offenders. An example of premium domain names targeted by thieves is Sex.com, which was stolen from its owner.
As domainer you will hold a valuable portfolio of domain names and domain thieves will target you. This section will give some tips on protecting your valuable domain names against theft.
1. Pick your registrar
When looking for a registrar, ensure that the one you choose are ICANN
accredited. This will ensure that your registrar complies with ICANN’s
requirements when it has been set up. Note that accreditation is no guarantee
against misuse and abuse. Also ensure that your registrar has a great reputation
and an excellent customer service.
2. Registration information
Upon registering your domain name, ensure that you provide true and accurate
personal identifiable information. Ensure that you always update your
information as and when it changes. This information is needed by the registrar
to contact you should the need arise. Also note that many registrars, if they
are unable to come into contact with you, will remove your accounts, along with
the domain names.
3. Keep your domains locked.
Always ensure that your registrar offers this service. You need to keep your
domains locked at all times. This ensures that a domain cannot be transferred to
another registrar without your knowledge.
4. Keep them double-locked
If you are in possession of high value domains, you might want to contact your
registrar and request that additional methods of security be imposes on
unlocking domains, for example an authorization code that should be applied when
unlocking a domain.
5. Get an EPP Authorization Code
Request an EPP authorization code from your domain registrar. This code is
unique to every domain and is provided for the purpose of authenticating
transfer requests. This code will give you additional security for your domains.
6. Get Insurance
Look for insurers offering insurance on domain names, in case of misuse or abuse
by third parties and you can be compensated for your losses incurred in any such
event.
7. Register a Trademark
Register a trademark for your domain. Tip: If your company’s name is CCCNew and
your domain name is CCCNEW.COM, get a trademark on CCCNew, so that your brand
would have trademark protection. You will receive protection against spoof
offenders and cybersquatters. If you can’t trademark your brand, then trademark
the domain name itself.
8. Continuous Monitoring
Ensure that you monitor your domain names, the websites and domain name accounts
at registrars on a regular basis. Ensure that content has not changed or
irregular activities taken place. Stay up to date with the daily business news
of your registrar. You should always be on the lookout for signs of financial
trouble, possible liquidation, trends in domain name thefts, etc. This will
enable you to take proactive measures in advance and not get stuck in a position
where you might stand a chance in losing your assets.
