Your business’ online presence is cemented by your domain name. Whether you’re providing goods and services or connecting with customers, your website address is a crucial way for visitors to access you online. However, your domain name security can be compromised, exposing you to cyber threats and attacks, fraud and theft of sensitive data.
We dive deep into what domain security is, and some ways that you can protect your domain.
What is domain security?
Domain security involves implementing measures to protect the integrity of your domain from cyber attacks and criminals. Multiple layers of protection should be employed and updated frequently to ensure maximum domain security.
The importance of domain security cannot be overstated: in fact, cyber attacks are on the rise across all industries, including this example of Russian cyber attacks against US banks. In many cases, the risk of cyber attacks can be mitigated with comprehensive domain security measures.
1. Use a strong password
It may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised at how many corporations opt for easy-to-remember passwords instead of secure ones. A combination of letters, numbers and symbols is recommended, but for maximum security, try a random password generator. Be cautious about who has access to your domain, and always change the password if any website administrators leave the company.
2. Use spyware or antivirus software
Installing spyware or antivirus software can prevent keylogging software and would-be hackers from accessing your precious data. Ensure that your antivirus software is up to date, and the latest security patches are installed on all applications.
3. Update your registrations
If any of your business details change, ensure that any account registrations are updated immediately. This includes addresses, phone numbers and other key business contact information. In the event of a domain security breach, you can be notified straight away and take action to prevent information being leaked.
4. Renew your domain before it expires
Once you’ve purchased your domain name and set up your website, it’s easy to lose track of your domain renewal. A lapsed registration is one of the easiest ways to lose your domain name, and makes it easy for criminals to steal your domain name and brand identity. Protect your domain by setting up automatic renewal, or synchronising all of your domain expiry dates so you only need to remember to renew once a year.
5. Secure your domain
While many domain providers offer strong security, adding an extra layer of protection doesn’t hurt. A domain lock, which can sometimes be known as a registrar lock or transfer lock, prevents your domain from being transferred without permission. SSL protection is one of the highest levels of domain security and protects the sensitive information of visitors to your website. Websites with https:// are protected by SSL certification, and many internet users are aware that this indicates a safe site. If you want to prevent external access to your domain by unknown sources, a server firewall allows you to specify locations and networks that are recognised.
6. Use domain privacy
By default, all of the information provided when you register a domain is listed for public viewing on WHOIS. This database is a widely used resource that identifies and records the owner of a domain, their location and their contact details. Anyone can access WHOIS, and potential hackers can abuse this information to impersonate your business online or send you fake domain renewal emails. However, there is a way to hide your information from public viewing. Opt for private domain registration for an additional fee, and your domain host will replace your private information with theirs. Anyone looking to contact you will have to go through the host first, and thieves won’t be able to access your business’ information.
Don’t let your domain fall into the wrong hands. Contact Cyberwebnic to learn more about our domain protection and security solutions.