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

[Shel Horowitz]

>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.

Sheesh! why am I not surprised?

I have long advised my clients not to start with checking 
availability, but typing the URL into a browser bar and seeing if it 
loads. I figure if it doesn't load twice at least one day apart, it's 
probably available, and nobody gets tipped off to game it. Then you 
make the official query only when you're ready to buy (and sometimes 
it is taken but undeveloped, but rarely).
-- 
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Shel Horowitz - 413-586-2388/800-683-WORD shel at frugalfun.com
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