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

[J. Cohen]

Network Solutions is domain tasting to protect customers against domain
tasters?  That is terrible...

See also this post and comments:
http://pocketseo.com/domains/7

Never search for domains or even type them into an address bar without
being ready to purchase.  ISPs are selling the "non-existent domain"
data to companies, and there may be spyware involved also.

Domain tasting is probably going to end soon though:
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/01/30/icann_to_stamp_out_domain_tasting/


Charles Uchu Strader wrote:
> 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/