Domain hijacking, also known as domain theft, is a serious security threat that can result in the unauthorised transfer or control of your domain name. Preventing and addressing domain hijacking is crucial to safeguard your website’s online presence. Here’s a guide on how to fix and prevent domain hijacking for any website.
Tips For Preventing Domain Hijacking
Here are few tips and strategies to prevent domain hijacking:
- Use Strong and Unique Passwords: Ensure that your domain registrar, hosting account, and email associated with your domain have strong and unique passwords. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA for your domain registrar, hosting provider, and email accounts. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second authentication method, such as a code from a mobile app, in addition to your password.
- Keep Contact Information Updated: Make sure your domain registrar has accurate and up-to-date contact information for you, especially your email address. Domain registrars often use email for verification and communication.
- Lock Your Domain: Enable domain locking (Registrar Lock or Transfer Lock) through your domain registrar. This prevents unauthorised transfers of your domain to another registrar.
- Set Domain Transfer Permissions: Customise your domain’s transfer settings. Some registrars allow you to specify who can request domain transfers and approvals.
- Regularly Review Domain Settings: Periodically check and review your domain settings and contact information. This helps you detect any unauthorised changes early.
- Use Privacy Protection (WHOIS Privacy): Many domain registrars offer WHOIS privacy services that hide your personal contact information from public WHOIS databases.
Addressing Domain Hijacking
If your domain is hijacked, the first step is to regain control of your domain registrar account. Contact your registrar’s support immediately. Follow their instructions for regaining control, which often includes providing proof of ownership.
- Verify and Update Your Domain’s Contact Information: Review and update your domain’s contact information to prevent further unauthorised changes. Change your password and enable 2FA.
- Investigate the Unauthorised Transfer: Request information about the unauthorised transfer from your domain registrar. Investigate how the breach occurred and address the security vulnerability.
- Inform Relevant Authorities: If your domain was hijacked as part of a broader cyberattack, consider reporting the incident to appropriate authorities and organisations like the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or your country’s law enforcement agency.
- Monitor for Future Unauthorised Activity: Continue monitoring your domain settings, contact information, and any unusual activity. Regularly update your passwords and 2FA settings.
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Preventing Future Domain Hijacking: In Conclusion
- Continuously educate yourself and your team about the latest security threats and best practices.
- Keep your website and server security up to date.
- Regularly backup your website data to prevent data loss during potential breaches.
- Monitor your website’s DNS records and SSL certificates for any unauthorised changes.
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By following these preventive measures and immediate actions to address domain hijacking, you can better protect your website and domain name from unauthorised access and transfers. It’s essential to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding your online presence.