[Hidden-tech] Be aware of "Front-running" by Network Solutions

[Fred Bliss]

Thanks for the alert.  This has been going on for almost 2 years that is 
known, and in the past it was a practice that only the greasiest of 
cyber-squatters (a person who registers and sits on a domain name to 
sell it later at a premium) would partake of.  Unfortunately Network 
Solutions has never been a friend to the customer.  They also charge too 
much for domains.  You can get top-level domains from many registrars 
for around $10, so I would encourage everyone to reconsider dealing with 
Network Solutions.  They may not be the only registrar holding domains 
hostage, but they certainly are charging more than the others!

Regards,

Fred Bliss

Charles Uchu Strader wrote:
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> Hey Hidden Techies,
>
> Just passing this news through as it is very relevant to anyone owning 
> or managing a domain name for their business or other people.  I first 
> thought it might just be passing news, but we've already had direct 
> contact with a customer of ours that first checked availability at 
> Network Solutions and have followed up and confirmed the practice is 
> prevalent.
>
> Network Solutions has started to game the domain registration system 
> through a tactic that is being called "front-running".  If you query 
> for a domain on their site, but don't purchase it, they will register 
> it in their Name for a period of four days.
> During that period you will be unable to register the domain at any 
> other registrar.  After that period the domain reverts back to public 
> availability and Network Solutions paid nothing to do so based on the 
> current policy that they are gaming that relates to that grace period.
>
> Here's an article about the situation if you want more detail.  The 
> global domain governing body (ICANN) is investigating the situation, 
> but so far Network Solutions continues the practice.
>
> http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/02/19/ican_questions_network_solutions_over_front_running/ 
>
>
> Regards,
>
> Charles Uchu Strader
>
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