Don’t Get Scammed by Domain Registry Notices

Don’t let fake domain renewal notices trick you — learn how to identify and avoid misleading mail from companies like DROA and iDNS.

 

If you’ve ever received a letter in the mail from a company like Domain Registry of America (DROA), Internet Domain Name Services (iDNS), or Domain Registry, you might have been alarmed. These letters often look like urgent domain renewal notices, but here’s the catch: they are not your domain registrar.

What Is a Domain Registrar?

Your domain registrar is the company you used to officially purchase and manage your domain name. Think of it as the “official record keeper” of your website’s name. Companies like GoDaddy, SquareSpace Domains (formerly Google Domains), Register.com, etc. are examples of legitimate domain registrars. When you register a domain, this is the company responsible for keeping your registration active and renewing it when necessary.

The Misleading Tactic

The companies sending you these letters — DROA, iDNS, and others — are not your registrar. These notices are cleverly disguised solicitations trying to trick you into transferring your domain to them, often at a higher price. The wording can be intentionally confusing, making you think your domain is at risk if you don’t act. But these are just marketing materials. They are designed to look urgent, but you’re under no obligation to respond.

How to Avoid These Scams

  • Know your registrar: Always keep track of the company where you registered your domain. If you’re unsure, you can log in to your domain registrar’s account or check your domain registration through a Whois lookup.
  • Ignore third-party letters: Unless it’s coming directly from your registrar, ignore unsolicited letters regarding your domain.
  • Don’t be fooled by urgency: These companies often use language that suggests your domain is about to expire. Always verify expiration dates directly with your registrar.
  • Consult your web partner: If you have a trusted partner like Ingenious handling your website, they can help keep track of your domain renewals and registrations, so you never have to worry about falling for these scams.

Stay Protected

Scammy domain renewal notices are a hassle, but with a little knowledge and the right web partner—like your partners here at Ingenious, Inc.—you can easily avoid them. Always be aware of who your domain registrar is and rely on them for anything regarding your website’s domain.

And, when in doubt, reach out to us here and ask us.  It might just save you a few hundred bucks!