If you own a domain name, you eventually may be hit with a domain name registration scam. Here’s how it works. You receive an “urgent” notice from a domain registry service telling you that your domain should be renewed with them immediately. The problem is that the letter or email might not be from the company you used to register your domain.
The Domain Registration Scam
Technically, what these domain registrars are doing is not illegal. They provide domain registration services, so you do get a service in exchange for the money you’re paying out. The reason I call it a scam is that you are paying far more than you would at other registrars and you’re being tricked into transferring your domain from your preferred registrar to a new company.
How did they get my name?
The thing that makes the unsuspecting especially vulnerable to this scam is the fact that the email or letter will be personalized. It will include your correct name, address, and contact information. The company that’s approaching you simply goes to the domain registry and pulls your contact information, then creates a letter or email to be sent out.
Is this illegal?
Again. No, it is not illegal. Is it preying upon the unsuspecting? Absolutely. Scams and cons rely on a combination of slick talk and perceived urgency. These letters and emails have both and we’ve received calls from clients over the years who have been scared into thinking they needed to renew their domain with the company that sent them the letter when, in fact, we managed the domain for them.
Three tips to avoid being taken
1) First, your domain registrar will not send you a letter, but an email. So, if you get a letter regarding your domain name, be suspicious.
2) Compare the name on the communication to that of your registrar. If they’re not the same, contact your registrar with questions.
3) Always be careful about links in emails. When in doubt, don’t click, since a phishing website may be just one click away.
