A domain takedown refers to the process of deactivating or removing a specific domain name from the Domain Name System.
Making the domain inaccessible
A domain takedown refers to the process of deactivating or removing a specific domain name from the Domain Name System (DNS), rendering it inaccessible on the internet. This action is typically taken to prevent the domain from being used for illegal, malicious, or harmful purposes. A takedown can mean different things depending on the type of domain we are dealing with.
The process of domain takedown
The process for a domain takedown typically involves the following steps:
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Identification: Identify a domain that is involved in illegal or malicious activities, such as phishing, malware distribution, or copyright infringement.
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Investigation: Gather evidence to support the takedown request. This may involve monitoring the domain's activities, collecting logs, and working with law enforcement if necessary.
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Contact Registrar/Hosting Provider: Contact the domain registrar or hosting provider responsible for the domain. Provide them with evidence of the domain's illicit activities and request that they take action.
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Legal Action: In some cases, legal action may be necessary, such as obtaining a court order to seize or take down a domain involved in criminal activities.
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Redirect or Suspend: Depending on the severity of the issue, the domain can be redirected to a safe location or suspended to prevent further harm.
Contacting the Registrar vs. Hosting Provider
Taking down a domain involves different processes when dealing with a domain hosting provider (hoster) and a domain registrar.
With a Hoster (Domain Hosting Provider):
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Involves removing a domain from the web hosting account.
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Typically done through the hosting account's control panel.
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May have options to delete or disconnect the domain.
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The domain is no longer associated with the hosting services.
With a Registrar (Domain Registrar):
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Involves releasing a domain from ownership.
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Managed through the registrar's website or control panel.
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Usually includes options to delete or release the domain for others to register.
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The domain becomes available for others to purchase, and the original owner may lose ownership.
In addition to this we engage with other relevant partners such as
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Registry Operators
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Website Building Tools
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Regional CERTs
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International CERTs
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Law Enforcement
- Government Agencies