While buying a web address is very exciting for a new company, it entails more than just coming up with the right name. Not all firms that offer domain names – often referred to as domain registrars are identical. Some use deceptive practices such as concealing costs or transferring your data in order to increase their profits, which may have a long-lasting effect on your company.
The excellent thing is that by following a few easy guidelines, you can learn what to look for when purchasing a domain. This article will list some of the things you have to watch out for when buying a domain name from GoDaddy, Google, or godaddy alternative domain registrars. Without further ado, let’s start:
- Keep an eye out for hidden expenses
As with any purchase, pricing may play a significant role. It’s all too easy to get enticed into purchasing a website domain at a ridiculously cheap price. However, do not be tricked: a few domain registrars advertise incredibly low sales promotions, but then hide numerous service charges in the agreement, traps you in a contract, and charge exorbitant renewal rates. In general, be careful that registrars providing dirt-cheap domain pricing may have revenue streams that skirt into the predator category. Among the strategies used includes including hidden expenses.
Numerous registrars profit from the fact that the majority of individuals do not read the small print in an agreement. Prior to purchasing a domain name, carefully study the domain provider’s user agreement for any ambiguous terms, commitments, or fees. Ensure that you are aware of the renewal prices and that you are purchasing exactly what you require and desire.
- Ensure your privacy is protected
Due to the fact that access to the relevant domain info is publicly available through the WHOIS and RDAP databases, many organizations prefer to maintain the security of their personal information. Spammers and fraudsters may mine unprotected data. Search for domain registrars that provide affordable or free privacy protection. Be suspicious of registrars that charge a fortune for ‘privacy services,’ particularly those that offer to register your domain in their name rather than yours, thereby giving them control of the domain.
- Safeguard your data
Apart from failing to secure your personal information from the public records mentioned above, some registrars sell your information to other parties like marketing firms. Certain registrars even exploit the WHOIS information and send out bogus renewal bills, convincing individuals to switch their domains without their knowledge. Ascertain that your registrant commits to never selling or misusing your client data for marketing reasons.
- Search for registrars that are transparent about their services
Seek registrars that are transparent about their prices and business operations. For instance, you should be able to quickly access information on your domain registration’s renewal fees and procedures for transferring or cancelling your domain registration. Certain registrars provide low-cost registration for your first purchase, but then demand exorbitant renewal fees the following year. Additionally, they may make it extremely hard to terminate your contract.
