Domain name scams

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Domain name registration scams

The pitch
You will be telephoned by a person claiming to be a domain name registration agent. The agent will inform you that a third party is interested in, or just about to purchase an internet domain name similar to that of your business.

The con
The caller will tell you that they want to give you first refusal on the domain name but you must act quickly if you wish to secure the name. Sometimes you may only be given minutes to accept the offer. The agent will pressure you into agreeing to pay an excessive fee for a domain name. In reality no interested third party exists.

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Domain name renewal scams

The pitch
You could be sent a letter that looks like a renewal notice for your domain name.

The con
Although the letter specifies renewal of your current domain name it will be from a different company to the one you have previously registered with.

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How to protect your business

If you have doubts about the reliability of a domain name offer you should contact your usual service provider or domain name registration agent.

Reduce unwanted phone calls by registering with the Telephone Preference Service or the Corporate Telephone Preference Service.

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