ICANN finally launches WHOIS website beta

We recently learned that this “new website, whois.icann.org, will be a centralised location for all WHOIS information, making it easier to learn about WHOIS, raise accuracy issues about WHOIS information and how to contribute to WHOIS policies”.
 
WHOIS – the database of registrant contact information – is a core part of ICANN’s mission. It was created in 1982 by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) as a directory service for ARPANET users to locate the appropriate individuals to enable the resolution of any technical problems with the online network. ICANN adapted the IETF WHOIS in 1998 to fulfil the Department of Commerce’s requirement for a “searchable database”. Since then, it has evolved and is used for locating domain name registrants for aftermarket sales and law enforcement.
 
ICANN has the power to enforce the WHOIS protocol through the contractual relationships it has with registries and registrars, who are mandated to follow WHOIS protocols. In addition, registries and registrars are required to comply with ICANN’s Consensus Policies, which include a WHOIS Data Reminder Policy.
 
Despite these agreements, many WHOIS records contain inaccurate or invalid information, and some country-code TLD registries provide a confusing WHOIS, or no WHOIS at all.
 
This new online resource is a preliminary step towards improving WHOIS. Community members have been invited to view the beta WHOIS website and provide feedback. The second phase of the site is expected to go live in January 2014, when a search function will be added.

Com Laude Client Manager, Phillipa Dyball (formerly Phillipa Pook), advocated for a one-stop WHOIS shop back in 2011. It looks like she may now get her wish. Along with discussions on privacy and proxy service accreditation standards, this fresh look at WHOIS is long overdue but very welcome nonetheless.

Com Laude offers corporate domain name management and online trademark protection for corporations worldwide. In addition, Com Laude offers the advice brand owners need in order to formulate a sharp strategy with regard to domain name registration in all the new gTLDs at the second level.