Web Hosting Reviews & Ratings

January 04, 2010

Domain Security: Keeping Control of Your Website

Finding a good domain name can be very difficult, as each day that passes new webmasters are registering all of the god names. With domains in such high demand, it is no wonder then that there are intruders that will do anything they can to take control of your domain for their benefit.  Everyday hackers develop new tools and techniques used to compromise the security of a website, server or personal computer. One of the latest trends is the practice of “domain hijacking.” The process is far more complex than one might imagine, as it involves the hacker gaining access to the administrative  module of a web hosting service. They are now learning not only how to control websites or computers, but entire networks and web hosting companies are being hijacked and all of the customers are being victimized. Once the hackers have access to the server of the web hosting company, they have the ability to change the rights of ownership to domains, which is where the problem begins.

Results of a Domain Hijacking

Recovering from a domain hijacking can be a lot harder than one would expect, as you will need to prove to the web hosting company that you are indeed the rightful owner of the domain.  Some hackers will even hijack the server that controls your domains traffic, redirecting traffic away from your website. This obviously would result in a loss of visitors and therefore money.  The hackers can even  tarnish your reputation by sending out malicious emails in your name, from your website!

Protecting Yourself from Domain Hacking

Most web hosting services offer varying levels of security, therefore it is important to choose only the highest level of security for your domain. It is also important to contact your web hosting provider and ensure that no changes are made to your account without proper notification and permission. The best way to keep track of any changes made to your web hosting account, is to give the hosting company your mobile phone number and email address, and make sure your account is setup to receive notifications when any changes occur. Staying on top of any changes to your account is the best way to prevent domain hijacking. Just this simple security measure could possibly save you thousands of dollars and weeks worth of frustration.

Reliability Over Cost

Domain hijacking is just one of many real threats that need to be considered when choosing a hosting service provider. If you run an online business, there is no room for compromise when it comes to security. Every measure must be taken to ensure the safety of your business and it's online reputation. Most cheap web hosting companies cannot afford to offer the highest form of security possible. Keep this in mind when choosing a domain registrar. The cheapest solution is often the riskiest as well, and saving a few extra dollars every month is not worth the risk of losing your entire business in the blink of an eye.

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