Have you ever heard of Cybersquatting (also known as domain squatting)? Cybersquatting, according to the Anticybersquatting Consumer Protection Act, is “registering, trafficking in, or using a domain name with bad faith intent to profit from the goodwill of a trademark belonging to someone else.” The cybersquatter then offers to sell the domain to the person or company who owns a trademark contained within the name at an inflated price. Whether it’s big corporations or your average Joe trying to make an extra buck, it is important to always make sure you are listed as the registrant of your domain name. Just because you pay for it, doesn’t mean you are necessarily the legal owner.
How do I know if I own my domain?
There are multiple websites that offer free domain name look-up such as Network Solutions and Whois.net. These sites allow you to search for your domain and see the registrants name, address, contact information and renewal dates as well as anyone else who may be listed on your account.
Can someone register my domain name for me?
Absolutely–just double check that your name is listed as the owner. We here at Old City Web Services register new domain names, renew existing ones and manage them so that they don’t expire without our clients knowledge. Here’s the key–We always list the client as the owner of the domain, meaning our clients have total control over their account information. We are only listed as a technical contact so that we can help our clients by reminding them when it’s time to renew or if their contact info needs updating. Once we register a domain, we automatically lock it down; insuring that only authorized persons will be allowed to make changes. By having the domain locked it will also guarantee it is safe and will not be stolen. It is important to have a trusted web company manage your domain for ownership and security reasons.
Don’t let someone blackmail you for your domain–Let Old City Web Services register and manage your domain so that you can have peace of mind and 100% assurance that your domain name is safe and in your control. Give us a call: 904.829.2772 or email us: letusmarketyou@oldcity.com for more information on your domain or how we can help!