BEWARE THE DOMAIN SCAMS

As much as we wish we could tell you that the internet is only comprised of honest individuals and companies, we regretfully inform you that there is some rather nasty business that takes place in the world of domain management.  It is important to understand some of these tactics so that you can protect you intellectual real estate on the web. Having as many websites under our control as we do, we get the unpleasant opportunity to deal with many of these borderline scams. Here are some things to watch out for:

The Fake Domain Registration or Renewal Bill

This is an easy one to fall for, you get a letter in the mail and it looks like a bill.  It comes from a company named something like "Domain Registry of America" or "The Internet Registration Office" or some other  feasible name for a domain registration company.  Chances are somewhere in bold letters it warns you that you must renew your registration or risk loosing your domain.  The sad part is that by paying this fee, you may do just that - loose your domain!

Example "bill":

What they are really doing here is an elaborate strategy to become your domain registrar - you pay the fee, then they call you to transfer.  Their fees are usually inflated and they may even offer some free services like "Top Position Placing in Search Engines" or something else attractive.  

Now these companies may very well be legit in being a licensed domain registrar but that doesn't mean they are good to do business with, after all, they are using terms like "renewal" even though you are not with them currently!

If you receive one of these solicitation, dig up your old receipts, check out who your domain registration company really is and let them know whats going on.

If you are a client of ours, do not think twice about calling us and asking us if it is a legitimate bill.  We will be more than happy to assist you.

 The Trademark Infringement Notice

We are not going to tell you that it is impossible that your domain name infringes on trademark laws - however it you get an email that you are potentially infringing on a trademark, is far more likely someone is trying to scam you.  Lawyers take that business seriously and you'll know it if they are after you!