The Whois Database

The WHOIS Database

About the whois database

When a domain name is registered, it is normal for the ownership details to be placed in what is known as the whois database. This database includes details such as your name, address, telephone number and email address.

The whois database reflects the legal owner of the domain and if this doesn't contain your name and address, you are NOT the legal owner. There are some registrars who will register domain names in their own name to get around the privacy issue with this but this means they are the legal owner and not you. These suppliers should be avoided as ownership and/or legal issues can arise.

Opting out

It generally depends upon the type of domain name and what the use will be for as to whether all your details will be listed. It is not possible to opt-out of the whois database for global top level domains (such as .coms) without losing the ownership of the domain name itself. ICANN are currently tracking down domain names with incorrect details and cancelling such domain names so please don't use fictional or inaccurate details as you may lose your domain name.

The best way to 'opt-out' is to use a PO BOX address with your domain name. This is perfectly valid and can be used as a general contact address for your web site and any other domain names you wish to register. It's also possible to use your 'work' address as the contact details for your domain name. Unfortunately a telephone number is still required along with an email address.

With uk domain names, the situation is a little different. Nominet UK (the registry for all UK domain names) will allow private individuals to opt out and we make this option available within our ordering process. This only applies when a domain name is registered for private use only. This will result in only your name being shown rather than your address, phone number and email address.