Do you "cloak" your WHOIS info?

[smalltown]

I'm not sure whether WHOIS 'cloaking' is derigeur, or dumb. Do you hide your personal WHOIS info behind your domain name registrar?


It sort of seems that if someone has a problem with you, you shouldn't make it too hard for them to contact you, especially if that someone has lawyers.


OTOH, maybe competitors would be the biggest problem, I don't know.


What would you advise to newbies?

[RxRob]

If you start out with a fresh server and only host domains on it thatyou proxied the same time you registered them, then it might be worth it.


If you proxy an established domain right now, whois.sc will havethe old whois records archived for everyone to see anyway.


I used to have my home phone listed on all my domains, but I got so many phone calls (hang ups, threats, etc.) from idiots, I had to change it.

[stevie]

whois for .com , .net is ridiculously intrusive on privacy.


I get at least 1 call a week from the assholes at abestweb asking me if I want to host with them. I moved my phone number to a call service that emails me voice mail messages so now I get 1 voicemail a week in my inbox from these bozos.


I think the nominet (.co.uk) domain system is one that we should get verisign to implement so that we can all have a little freakin privacy. No information is given to the general public EXCEPT the persons name. NICE


I'd proxy any domain you register for the simple fact that you'll get spammed if you don't not to mention the side benefits of anonymity

[seodoc]

I agree, something needs to be done about the whois system it is terribly intrusive. Forget the webhosters calling, on one of my domains where I sell marketing software I get a dozen calls a week from SEOs pitching their services. I'm always game for a good pitch though, unfortunately most of them are very amateur salesmen.

[redex]

Another reason to get an LLC. Like RxRob said, for existing domains, too late, but for new registrations, it could keep weirdos from beating on your door. Just ask Icollect.


It takes law enforcement about fifteen minutes to break the anonimity in a proxy service. If you are looking to hide, you can't. If you falsify your registration info, you could lose the domain to ICANN. If you didn't pay cash or money order for the registration, they can trace you through your credit card.


What is it you are trying to hide from? smileys/smiley8.gif

[killroy]

Mostly other SEOs trying to learn my tricks ;)

SN

[smalltown]

(Slap forehead) I forgot about the virtual hosting problem. It sure would be funny to proxy ONE domain on a block of otherwise public ones.


I had a vague feeling it might be silly to proxy but wasn't quite sure why. Good replies. Thank you.