WHOIS Accuracy Requirements
What Is WHOIS?
WHOIS is a publicly accessible database that stores the contact details associated with every registered domain name. It typically includes the registrant’s name, organization, address, email, and phone number. WHOIS data plays a critical role in identifying domain ownership and resolving technical or legal issues.
Why Accuracy Matters
ICANN requires that all domain registrants maintain accurate and up-to-date WHOIS information. This obligation is part of your Registration Agreement with 10Corp. Inaccurate WHOIS records can lead to serious consequences, including domain suspension or cancellation.
Accurate WHOIS data helps:
- Establish ownership: Proves you are the legitimate owner of a domain.
- Resolve disputes: Provides a point of contact for trademark holders or law enforcement.
- Ensure communication: Allows your registrar to reach you about renewals, transfers, and compliance issues.
What Information Must Be Accurate?
You must keep the following WHOIS fields current and correct:
- Registrant Name — The individual or organization that owns the domain.
- Email Address — A valid, monitored email address for the registrant.
- Mailing Address — A physical address where you can be reached.
- Phone Number — A working telephone number.
Any change to this information must be updated within seven days.
WHOIS Verification Process
When you register or update a domain, 10Corp will send a verification email to the registrant email address on file. You must confirm your email within 15 days. If verification is not completed, the domain may be suspended until the process is finished.
WHOIS Privacy Services
Many registrants use WHOIS privacy (also called domain privacy) to shield personal details from public view. Privacy services replace your contact information with proxy details in the public WHOIS database. However, the actual registrant data must still be accurate and on file with your registrar.
Using WHOIS privacy does not exempt you from accuracy requirements.
Consequences of Inaccurate WHOIS Data
- Domain suspension or cancellation by your registrar.
- Inability to transfer your domain.
- Potential loss of the domain in a dispute.
- ICANN enforcement actions.
How to Update Your WHOIS Information
Log into your 10Corp account, navigate to the domain management section, and update your contact details. Changes typically take effect within 24–48 hours. If you need assistance, reach out to 10Corp support.