Transferring A Domain Name Has Just Got Tighter As Of The End Of Last Year When ICANN Introduced An Updated Transfer Policy

ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) is a voluntary body that co-ordinates unique identifiers across the world.  This means that when you type a name or number into your browser you can reach the right person or website.

As we continue to move into a world more heavily reliant on internet communications and the resultant rise of hackers, mischief makers and cyber crime, ICANN decided it was time, after 9 years since the last time the rules changed, for tighter controls and procedures when transferring ownership of a domain name.

Any change at all to a domain name – even editing a single letter in the name, change of address or contact email – will now mean that the domain is locked down for 60 days.

This move will mostly affect domain investment businesses – those who purchase domains to generate income.  Before the new rules took effect, registrants such as domain investors could bulk edit their portfolios.  Now each individual domain change will trigger an email asking for confirmation by both parties.

Cumbersome, perhaps, maybe a very heavy handed approach to tackling domain crime and possibly still open to cybercriminals creating a new breed of phishing emails.  However, any move to tackling cybercrime has to be welcomed.

This change to the rules won’t affect individual purchasers of domain names for their business purposes – it will still be business as usual.  However, if you have any questions, please do get in touch today and one of the team will endeavour to assist.