Securing a domain requires a multi-layered approach. To stop hijacking, enable registrar locks, enforce 2FA on your account, configure DNSSEC to prevent spoofing, and set up monitoring for unexpected nameserver changes. High-value corporate domains should also utilize offline registry locks for maximum protection.
The 12-Step Security Checklist
- Enable Registrar Lock - Prevents unauthorized transfers. Toggle on in your domain manager.
- Activate 2FA - Require authenticator app verification for all account logins.
- Use Unique Passwords - Never reuse passwords across registrar, email, and hosting accounts.
- Secure Your WHOIS Email - This address receives transfer confirmations. Protect it with its own 2FA.
- Enable Domain Defender - Add security questions and change notifications for critical actions.
- Configure DNSSEC - Prevents DNS cache poisoning by cryptographically signing zone data.
- Set Up Renewal Alerts - Never lose a domain to accidental expiration.
- Monitor Nameserver Changes - Get notified immediately if DNS is modified.
- Review Account Access - Remove old team members and audit API key permissions.
- Enable Auto-Renewal - Backup protection against missed manual renewals.
- Use Registry Lock (High-Value Domains) - Requires offline verification for any changes.
- Document Recovery Procedures - Know exactly how to regain access if compromised.
Registrar Lock vs Registry Lock
Registrar Lock is a software toggle preventing transfer initiation. Free, instant, and essential for every domain. Attackers who access your account must unlock the domain first, creating time for detection.
Registry Lock operates at the registry level, requiring manual, offline verification before any modifications. This defeats automated attacks but adds friction to legitimate changes.
Use registrar lock universally. Add registry lock for corporate brands and business-critical domains.
DNSSEC Explained
DNSSEC cryptographically signs DNS records, allowing resolvers to verify responses haven't been tampered with.
What it prevents: Cache poisoning attacks where hackers redirect visitors to malicious servers.
What it doesn't prevent: Account takeovers, social engineering, or credential-based attacks.
NameSilo supports DS record creation for DNSSEC configuration. Full DNSSEC support for our default nameservers is currently in development and will be available soon.
Proactive Monitoring
Reactive security fails. By the time you notice a hijack, damage is done.
Renewal Monitoring: Set calendar alerts 90, 30, and 7 days before expiration. Enable auto-renewal as backup.
Nameserver Alerts: Get immediate notification if DNS records change. Unauthorized modifications are the first sign of compromise.
WHOIS Monitoring: Track changes to registration contacts. Attackers often modify WHOIS before transferring.
Common Security Failures
Most domain hijacks don't exploit registrar vulnerabilities, they exploit weak email security.
Your WHOIS email receives transfer authorization requests. If attackers control that inbox, they approve transfers without your knowledge.
The fix: Use a dedicated email address for domain registration with its own strong password and 2FA. Never use your everyday inbox for WHOIS contacts. Other failures include password reuse, ignoring transfer notifications, and sharing EPP codes via unencrypted channels.
What This Means for You
NameSilo provides security tools at no extra cost. Domain Defender adds two protection layers: up to 5 security questions required for domain changes, plus proactive notifications via email or SMS for nearly 15 action types, nameserver updates, lock changes, contact modifications, and auth code requests. Combined with free 2FA and automatic registrar locking, you have enterprise-grade protection without enterprise pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is domain hijacking?
Unauthorized transfer of ownership through compromised credentials or social engineering.
Adds cryptographic signatures to DNS records, letting resolvers verify responses are authentic.
Do I need a registry lock?
For high-value domains, yes. For personal domains, registrar lock plus 2FA usually suffices.
What's the biggest security risk?
Compromised email accounts. Secure your WHOIS email with unique credentials and 2FA.
Can I recover a hijacked domain?
Sometimes, through ICANN's dispute process. Prevention is far easier than recovery.
How often should I audit security?
Quarterly. Review access permissions and confirm locks are enabled.
Does WHOIS privacy improve security?
Yes. It hides details attackers could use for social engineering.
What notifications should I enable?
All, nameserver changes, lock status, contact updates, and auth code requests.
.png&w=3840&q=75)
.png&w=2048&q=75)
.png&w=3840&q=75)