Ask the Answer Guy – I Have Heard About People Losing Their Internet Domain. What Can I Do to Safeguard Our Domain?

The first and best way to protect your domain is to use a reputable registrar. It's foolish to put your brand and all your hard work at risk just to save a few dollars a year with a cheap but dubious company.

There are over 500 registrars out there, and you can learn more about them or choose one by going to NamePros, DNForum, or RegSelect.

More importantly, though, be sure that you are the owner of your domain. Many unscrupulous registrars will try and list themselves as the owner. Be certain that the international WhoIs database record lists your own name, address, and phone number. Click here to check the ownership status of your domain.

Beyond these basic precautions, you should also be aware of unauthorized domain transfers. All domain names are regulated by a non-profit organization, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). Under their rules, anyone can request to transfer your domain. If you don't deny the request within five days, this request can automatically go through.

Fortunately, you can ask your registrar to block all attempts to transfer your domain without your permission. Be sure to choose a registrar that offers this service, such as Register.com or NetworkSolutions.com.

About Brent Whitfield

Brent Whitfield is CEO of DCG Technical Solutions, Inc., which provides IT Support in the Los Angeles area since 1993. DCG exists to help our clients choose, implement, and manage IT and cloud solutions that are cost effective and reliable. DCG's pro-active approach to IT is ideally suited for companies who depend on reliable IT infrastructure, but don't want to spend a lot of money to keep it that way. DCG was recognized among the Top 10 Fastest Growing MSPs in North America by MSP Mentor. Brent has been featured in Fast Company, CNBC, Network Computing, Reuters, and Yahoo Business.