8 Must-Know Domain Name Security Tips for Every Business

Domain Name Security Tips

Four years ago, in 2020, nearly half of all cyberattacks—46% of cyberattacks targeted the United States of America. Fast forward to 2023, data breaches increased by 72%. In such a short period, the internet has become more vulnerable to cyber threats. As cybercriminals grow thickened skin, the need for robust security measures is becoming more critical. more critical. 

In this article, we’ll explore how you can continue your online journey without risking yourself from cyber threats like identity theft, hackers, and domain hijacking.

What is domain name security?

Domain name security is the set of practices and technologies designed to protect a domain name. Think of it as an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access, tampering, and theft. 

To secure your domain name effectively, it’s important to implement domain security measures like two-factor authentication, Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC), and regular domain name status monitoring. 

Why domain security matters 

Understanding the importance of domain security is crucial for domain owners. Domain names are the cornerstone of online spaces. Therefore, safeguarding it prevents severe consequences in the future, like financial losses, reputational damage, and legal liabilities. 

Cybercriminals exploit poorly protected domain names. These criminals usually aim for one or two things: to alter your domain registration contact information and gain control over the domains registered under your account or modify the DNS settings to redirect your website traffic to fraudulent websites where their information and personal credentials are exposed. 

With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, domain names are increasingly a vulnerable target for larger attacks. With adequate domain security, you’re lowering the risk of your domain from being used as a weapon to create larger attacks, like spreading malware and facilitating identity theft. 

8 actionable tips to secure your domain name 

Take the extra effort to implement proactive measures to safeguard your domain name from cyber-attacks. To ensure that your website remains accessible, credible, and free from unauthorized access, here are eight essential tips you can keep in mind.

Enable two-factor authentication 

Think of two-factor authentication as adding a strong lock to your front door. It adds an extra layer of protection by requiring two steps to verify your identity when logging in. 

Typically, this means you’ll enter your password and then receive a one-time code sent to your device or generated by an authenticator app. Even if someone knows your domain credentials, they ‘ll still need the second factor to log in. 

Renew your domain on time 

How can renewing a domain on time secure your domain? To put it simply, expired domains are more vulnerable and prone to domain hijacking and squatting. 

If you don’t renew your domain name on time, you run the risk of a domain squatter to register your domain name and use it for malicious purposes. 

You can enable auto-renewal to ensure you don’t miss renewing your domain. This proactive approach can be your best defense against domain hijacking attempts, preserving your brand’s integrity. 

Enable domain expiration protection 

Don’t trust your memory when it comes to renewal dates. Many domain registrars offer Domain Expiration Protection. This robust tool prevents your domain from expiring. 

Domain Expiration Protection extends your domain registration and domain ownership for a year. This way, you don’t have to worry about missing renewal deadlines and risking losing your domain from domain theft.

Lock your domain  

To ensure your domain’s safety, enable your domain security lock. Domain locking prevents unauthorized changes through your domain settings. There are different types of domain locks.  

  • Domain legal lock. It locks your domain due to suspicious activities. Unlocking your domain will only be possible through a brief investigation, which can last depending on the case.  
  • Domain transfer lock. This lock stops the unauthorized transfer of your domain from your account. It ensures your domain stays under your hands even if someone has gained access to your authorization code.  
  • Outbound change of registrar lock. You’ll see this lock activated on the day the change is made. You’ll receive an email explaining the reason for the lock’s activation.  
  • Change of registrar lock. Any updates on your contact information, including the Registrant’s name, email address, or organization name, will result in a 60-day COR Lock. This lock will also reflect on all domains tied to your account. 

Keep your personal information safe from the public 

Registering a domain will make your personal information visible through the WHOIS database, a public database that contains information about registered domain names. This makes you an easy target for identity theft. 

Fortunately, you can shield your personal details from the public eye using Domain Privacy Protection. It’s a domain protection tool that hides your personal information, like your name and contact details, from the public WHOIS database. It replaces your personal information with your registrar’s information. 

Get extra layer of web security 

Beyond domain protection, safeguarding your website with additional security measures is also crucial in keeping your domain safe from cyber threats. Here are a few web security layers that can help strengthen your domain’s defense against cyber-attacks. 

SiteLock Security 

SiteLock scans your website for malware and any suspicious activities. If it notices something is wrong, SiteLock will notify you via email and your control panel. 

One of the best features of SiteLock is that it can automatically remove any malware. This means you can rest assured that your website is being monitored and cleaned up, even when you’re away. 

By integrating SiteLock, your website will get a certification badge or a ‘SiteLock seal,’ signifying that your website is secure. This helps you build trust among your customers. 

SSL Certificate 

A Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) certificate ensures a secure communication between your web host server and your visitor’s browser. 

How does it work? SSL certificates create encrypted and unreadable information for every data transfer request. Like how DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM) works, data decryption requires the use of private and public keys, also known as encryption keys. 

This data encryption prevents attackers from tampering with your website’s information and customer information, like billing information and login credentials.

DNSSEC 

The Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) is a critical security measure that protects your domain from any interception within the Domain Name System (DNS). It uses cryptographic techniques that ensure the authenticity and integrity of DNS data, avoiding DNS spoofing attacks and other DNS-related threats. 

DNSSEC uses cryptographic signatures to create a secure domain name system. These signatures are stored in DNS name servers together with other records. By checking its associated signature, the system can verify whether a DNS record request is coming from its authoritative name server or an altered en route. 

CodeGuard 

CodeGuard is a cloud-based backup solution that provides an additional layer of web security. It’s a tool for easy recovery from mistakes or changes hackers make. 

Every day, CodeGuard creates automatic backups by taking snapshots of your website and stores its data securely in the cloud. This way, when hackers gain access to your website and change it, you can still restore it to its previous version. 

Fortunately, you can avoid scenarios like this from happening with CodeGuard. How? One of CodeGuard’s key features is daily monitoring. For every unexpected change on your website, CodeGuard will send you an alert notification. With this method, you still have ample time to do any security run-through to stop hackers from making malicious changes to your site.

Keep your domain credentials safe 

Keeping credentials, like contact details and login passwords, safe and personal is one of the most critical steps in achieving domain security. Here are some best practices to avoid unauthorized access to your domain management account. 

  • Use strong passwords. Avoid guessable login information, such as birthdays and full names. Create complex passwords through the combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, special characters, and numbers. 
  • Use unique passwords. Use different passwords for all your online accounts. Avoid reusing the same password to reduce the risk of compromising multiple accounts. 
  • Limit access. Keep your login credentials to yourself or trusted individuals only. This way, you’ll have much control over who gets to access your website domain. 

Choose a reputable domain registrar 

A domain registrar with a great work ethic, products, and services can take you a long way. Domain registrars play a crucial role in managing your domain registration and DNS settings. 

A trustworthy registrar can help you protect your website domain from various cyber-attacks. So, make an informed choice to obtain a solid foundation for your domain’s safety and online business identity.

Factors to consider when choosing a domain registrar 

Many domain registrars out there offer great quality services. With so many to choose from, it can get overwhelming. To ensure you select the right one, here are key factors to remember when choosing the domain registrar for you. 

User-friendly 

Choose a registrar that possesses a straightforward interface. Registrars with a user-friendly interface provide a simplified registration process. It also makes navigating essential security features and settings an easy process. 

A straightforward dashboard allows for easy updates to domain settings, management of DNS records, and timely renewals, reducing the risk of domain-related errors. 

Provides security features 

Security breaches lead to unauthorized access or worse. So, choose a reputable registrar that offers robust security measures. 

For example, Domain.com offers a range of robust security features, like Domain Privacy + Protection, SiteLock, Domain Expiration Protection, and SSL Certificate. Choosing a registrar like Domain.com can give you peace of mind and help you protect your domain from cyber threats. 

ICANN accredited  

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is a global non-profit organization that oversees the DNS. They’re like the lawmakers of the internet. They ensure a safe browsing experience, ensuring that servers can map domain names to their specific IP addresses effectively. 

ICANN provides a list of accredited registrars who follow their strict policies. This signifies their commitment to providing safety for the customers’ website domain.  

Excellent customer support 

Excellent customer support from your registrar is vital for addressing security-related issues quickly and efficiently. Your registrar should be like a friend who will be there for you when you’re in trouble. 

Quality customer support ensures you can reach someone who can assist you with your needs, whether it’s troubleshooting technical problems, resolving security issues, or managing domain renewals.

What to do when domain hijacking occurs 

Let’s say, your domain was hijacked. You’re new to the online environment and you feel lost. Don’t lose hope yet! Let’s take a look at the steps that you can take to regain your domain ownership.

Step 1. Double-check if your domain is hijacked 

Double-check your website first to avoid false alarms. If you try searching for your domain name in a web browser but it doesn’t open your site, check your internet connection. Sometimes, a weak connection can cause this issue.  

If your internet is fine, it could also mean your domain has expired because you missed renewing it. So, check your domain details to ensure you didn’t miss any renewal deadlines. 

If your domain is working but takes you to a different website, that’s a red flag. It might mean someone hacked into your website or stolen and gained access to your domain. In that case, you need to take action to secure it. 

Step 2. Reach out to your registrar 

Once you’re sure about the domain hijacking, contact your domain registrar immediately. This is the company where you registered your domain name. Let them know what’s happening and ask for help. 

It’s important to talk clearly with them so you can get back into your account and prevent hackers from messing with other domains you might own. 

Step 3. Check if DNS records are available 

Once you’re able to log in to your account, check if the DNS records are there. It’s essential to check your DNS record to avoid domain spoofing, where you can potentially lose your customer’s trust. 

If you find that your DNS records are off, try restoring the DNS settings while you’re in your account. If you’re not sure how to do this, you can ask your domain registrar for help or check their knowledge base articles. 

Step 4. Regain domain ownership 

If you lost ownership of your domain, you can contact your registrar to regain it. Most domain registrars have paper trails of when the transfer transaction occurred and who the domain’s previous owner is. If you can prove that your domain was hijacked, your domain registrar can help transfer the domain back to you from whoever has it now.

Safeguard your domain name with Domain.com 

Securing your domain name is crucial to protecting your online presence. By implementing essential security measures like regular renewals, enabling Domain Privacy Protection and Expiration Protection, adding layers of web security, and choosing the right domain registrars, you can reduce the risk of cyber-attacks that can damage your business’s reputation. 

Domain.com offers everything you need in terms of domain management and domain security. With robust security tools and excellent customer support, you can rest knowing your domain name is well guarded.

Frequently asked questions 

What is DNS? 

The DNS is like the internet’s directory. It’s responsible for converting IP addresses to human-readable domain names and vice versa. 

What is DKIM? 

The DomainKeys Identified Mail, or DKIM, is a method of encrypting emails and verifying that email bodies and attachments are accurate. It aims to protect internet users from forged sender addresses and email spoofing attacks. 

What happens if your domain name expires?  

When the domain expires, the website and email associated with that domain can become inaccessible. The registrar will try to sell it for auction before deleting it entirely. 

How do I know if a domain name is safe? 

The browser is the easiest way to check if a domain name or a website is safe. Look for security identifiers such as a padlock icon or green bar, or it says https in the URL instead of http. 

How do I permanently own a domain name? 

The truth is you can’t. Registering a domain is like renting a place to stay. While you can keep registering a domain for an extended period, usually ten years, you can’t own a domain name forever. 


Angelo Pocong
Angelo Pocong

Angelo is a content writer at Domain.com. His eagerness to help people fuels his passion for writing digestible and valuable content. He loves learning new things and is passionate about different forms of art.

Angelo Pocong
Angelo Pocong

Angelo is a content writer at Domain.com. His eagerness to help people fuels his passion for writing digestible and valuable content. He loves learning new things and is passionate about different forms of art.