Despite the Internet being the perfect platform for all business types, this doesn’t mean that the online world is without threat. Although some may be aware of some industry scams, there could be some that go unrecognized simply because online users aren’t familiar with them.
The following is an overview of some of the threats that online users need to be aware of and reinforces the reason why robust security is needed concerning domain names and hosting.
Typosquatting
Typosquatting is also referred to as URL hijacking and refers to when nefarious websites are set up for when users enter a domain incorrectly. These sites find a lot of traction online due to their design, which emulates that of the business or brand they’re imitating.
In some instances, there could be a risk of personal information being leaked, whereas others could find that they’re subjected to some form of fraud.
There is also a danger of malware being attached to the website which could be downloaded to a device or network without the person ever knowing.
Dangers Associated with Domains
As well as there being dangers associated with misspelt domains, there can be just as many dangers in place for those that own domain names. These industry scams are known by different terms but ultimately aim to take over control of the domain name using nefarious tactics.
Registrar Hijacking
Registrar hijacking can make itself known in different ways. In some instances, third parties may take control of accounts and amend the DNS so incoming traffic meant for one platform is directed elsewhere.
If there is more than one domain name registered on the registrar, then third parties will also have access to these.
Another approach is to email victims direct with a faux page that emulates their provider and will ask for user details and gain access to the details provided.
Domain Phishing
Domain phishing is much like registrar hijacking in that third parties look to deceive domain name owners into handing over their details. This is normally done via an email that’s designed to look it’s from the domain name provider.
DNS Attacks
When compared to the other threats listed, DNS attacks may not seem as harmful, but unfortunately, this isn’t the case.
DNS attacks work by flooding a website with too much traffic, meaning that the website can come to a grinding halt.
Why Do Such Attacks Take Place?
The reason for cyberattacks can vary. In some instances, it could be for financial gain whereas other instanced could be to crash the website of a competitor. In some instances, the attack can be a result of those who just enjoy the concept of cyber-attacks.
Whatever the reasons for a cyber-attack, a business needs to ensure that it’s making efforts to safeguard the integrity of domain names, as well as ensuring that login details are always protected.
There are also a series of other steps that can be taken to ensure that even if a cyber-attack does take place, a business is protected as much as possible.
Ensure You Use a Trusted Domain Provider
Although this may be obvious to some, the importance of using the right domain provider needs to be reinforced.
Although it’s understandable that some will want to ensure that they’re not paying more than they need to when it comes to domain names and hosting, this shouldn’t mean risking the security of your domain names and hosting.
Those looking for an easy and secure way of purchasing domain names can use the domain name registration and management option available from AVHoster which is affordable, secure and aligned with other services to ensure that website owners are making the best of their online presence.
Protect Your Control Panel
Although many may assume that the login details set up for their domain control panel, it can be worthwhile to consider domain privacy to ensure hackers aren’t able to access details from public WHOIS details.
Ensure That You Auto-Renew Your Domain Name
Although there can be times when domain names are acquired via nefarious means, there can also be times when domain names are held to ransom because they expired. Ensuring that domains are auto-renewed means that there is no time for the domain name to be registered by anyone else.
Can You Recover a Stolen Domain Name?
There’s no one way to recover a stolen domain name, as it will depend on how the domain name was acquired.
However, those who have had the misfortune of having their domain name hijacked or their hosting compromised can try the following.
Update Anti-Virus Software
Regardless of whether a business uses one device or several, it’s important that the relevant updates are installed as and when they’re released. Some may assume that simply having anti-virus software installed is enough, but the birth of new threats means that many updates must be released to ensure users are kept safe.
Businesses that are having issues staying up to date with anti-virus updates can often choose to have the install automatically.
Get in Touch with the Domain Registrar
Even if you’re unsure as to whether your domain name has been compromised, your first point of contact should be the domain registrar. Explain the situation to the domain registrar and ensure that you’re able to provide any supporting documentation.
As well as having an excellent level of customer service, AVHoster.com takes the security of its customers seriously. As well as ensuring that account holders have access to all the information they need, AVHoster.com will also work with customers that may in the unlikely position of having their accounts compromised.
Seek Legal Assistance
Although many will find that their registrar is very helpful in such instances, there could be times when legal assistance has to be sought when taking back control of a domain name. Again, having access to all the supporting documentation is important, as well as any other supporting documentation that you may have.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Provider in the First Instance
Although the business has responsibilities when it comes to the security of its domain names and hosting, it’s also important to ensure that you’re using a reliable provider.
Regardless of whether you’re setting up your website for the first time or are looking to switch to a more reliable and cost-effective hosting provider, then why not check out the services available from AVHoster.com, which includes a free website migration service for first-time users.
