Domain Privacy - Is It Really Worth It? | Warrior Forum - The #1 Digital Marketing Forum & Marketplace

13 years ago

Originally Posted by LilBlackDress

I have a PO box and run ethical quality sites. So far I have been buying domain privacy but I am starting to wonder what am I gaining from it?

I would love to learn your thoughts regarding domain privacy.

you don't need it. You need privacy only in that case if you do some shady stuff.

Thanks
2 replies

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869006].message }}

TheRichJerksNet

13 years ago

Originally Posted by jaysteven84

you don't need it. You need privacy only in that case if you do some shady stuff.

That is a incorrect statement ....

Whois Privacy is for many reasons..

* Hide you niche sites from Competition

* Control Spam and Snail Mail Junk

* Because "real" info is required you cannot register domain names under a pen name, thus whois privacy is required if you are running a site under a pen name

* It blocks harvesters from nabbing your info to resell as leads to someone else

* It saves you from stalkers, yes some people actually do stalk others

These are just a few reasons... I say yes it is worth it ....

James

[ 3 ] Thanks
2 replies

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869053].message }}

WealthCoachPro 13 years ago

Originally Posted by TheRichJerksNet

* Hide you niche sites from Competition

Bingo, this is exactly why you want to use the Privacy. Im not sure why you would not want to, its free with your domain purchase.
- Thanks
{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2081425].message }}

Andy Immotna

13 years ago

I agree with this..

I use 1and1 for my domains. All domains come with free Whois Privacy..

Originally Posted by TheRichJerksNet

That is a incorrect statement ....

Whois Privacy is for many reasons..

* Hide you niche sites from Competition

* Control Spam and Snail Mail Junk

* Because "real" info is required you cannot register domain names under a pen name, thus whois privacy is required if you are running a site under a pen name

* It blocks harvesters from nabbing your info to resell as leads to someone else

* It saves you from stalkers, yes some people actually do stalk others

These are just a few reasons... I say yes it is worth it ....

James

Thanks

Signature

Run your own membership website with access to 11 individual monthly membership sites plus we even setup your membership site structure for you!

http://www.membershipsfusion.com

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2081441].message }}

John Atkins 13 years ago

Originally Posted by jaysteven84

you don't need it. You need privacy only in that case if you do some shady stuff.

That's wrong on so many levels. I don't do 'shady stuff', yet I
still use private registrations.

I register them privately simply because I don't like giving
my full name, address & contact details to the public.
- Thanks
{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2000744].message }}

Tyler Jonsson

13 years ago

It makes it *slightly* more difficult for other marketers to "spy" on your other sites. Meaning if they run a whois search on one of your niche sites, they cannot just instantly see the other 10 niche sites you run.

Depending on your business model this is a valuable thing.

If you run adsense content sites for example ;-)

It really depends...

Thanks
1 reply

Signature

The Niche Marketer's Journey
100% Free Internet Niche Marketing Newsletter, with "Hype-Free" advice on building your online business!

Act Like A Marketer - Actor Training for Internet Marketers
Acting... It's Not Just for Hollywood!

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869017].message }}

SEOPoints

13 years ago

Originally Posted by Tyler Jonsson

It makes it *slightly* more difficult for other marketers to "spy" on your other sites. Meaning if they run a whois search on one of your niche sites, they cannot just instantly see the other 10 niche sites you run.

What's the extra step that needs to be taken if someone wanted to find your other sites, assuming you're using some kind of WHOIS-guard type site? You mention it makes it slightly more difficult, so it sounds like there's an extra step that can be taken to get all the information anyway. What is it?

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869188].message }}

Gene Pimentel

13 years ago

Domain Privacy is like locking your front door. It only keeps the innocent out. You are not protected from those who want to get in.

[ 1 ] Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869072].message }}

Braden4u Banned 13 years ago

[DELETED]

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2081195].message }}
- jockpurtle 13 years ago
  
  Domain privacy is powerful for affiliate marketing. when you don't want people to find your niches.
  
  If you are a public figure like your blog then it should be open.
  
  namecheap.com offers free whois blocking.
  
  I think namecheap is by far the best domain service for internet marketers.
  
  Thanks
  
  Signature
  What do you want to know about the internet to increase your income and live your desired lifestyle ?
  
  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2081206].message }}

Gary King

13 years ago

Makes it a little more difficult for someone digging through records to find you, but they can always email the privacy name - it has to work or the domain would be in violation of ICANN regulations.

That said, spammers can still get to them and therefor your inbox.

I do believe in using them (not for nefarious reasons) but simply to keep everyone in the world from having my physical address. :-)

Thanks
1 reply

Signature

===========================

OFFLINERS! Warning: Unless You Know These Pricing Secrets, You are Leaving THOUSANDS on the Table. Get Your Free Report Now.

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869110].message }}

schleprock

9 years ago

Originally Posted by Gary King

Makes it a little more difficult for someone digging through records to find you, but they can always email the privacy name - it has to work or the domain would be in violation of ICANN regulations.

That said, spammers can still get to them and therefor your inbox.

I do believe in using them (not for nefarious reasons) but simply to keep everyone in the world from having my physical address. :-)

If I am doing a background check I can find you. If you use your real name I will know (and use in legal document, possible court) and use it against you. You don't want to tell a judge you have no money and then I (my attorney) tell him you own a website with great traffic and Google estimates your earning at X amount.
I own a website on addiction. If someone runs a backgroud on me I don't want everyone knowing I was a drunk and how flipping out of control things got.

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[9210050].message }}

Negotiator74

13 years ago

I wouldn't go without it but thats just me. I don't want someone to be able to google my name and come up with every site I own....I'm just a little cautious like that.

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869115].message }}

sbucciarel

Banned 13 years ago

I never use it. I want people to be able to contact me if they want to buy a site of mine. Never had any unusual problems with not using it.

Thanks
1 reply

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869169].message }}

aaallday2010 13 years ago

Originally Posted by sbucciarel

I never use it. I want people to be able to contact me if they want to buy a site of mine. Never had any unusual problems with not using it.

Don't you have a contact form on your websites?
- Thanks
{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869312].message }}

Amanda_Davis

13 years ago

There's plenty of other ways people can track you down or find out your niches... e.g. just do a quick search to see what other sites are held on the same server.

Thanks
1 reply

Signature

Join My No B.S. Internet Marketing Launches Newsletter [Info, Rebates, Bonuses & More!]

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869194].message }}

cellcom 13 years ago

Personally, I would not pay extra to have it.

If you really need it - I would host your domain with a company that offered the service for free like 1and1 dot com hosting.
- Thanks
Signature

Hosting & GoDaddy Discount Coupon Codes
High Quality Solo Ads
Godaddy Discount Promo Codes
{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869213].message }}

bobsedge

13 years ago

If you get your domains through 1and1.com, domain privacy is free.

Thanks
1 reply

Signature

www.flexxbuy.com - multiple lender customer financing platform for prime to sub-prime consumers.

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869208].message }}

Cynthia A. 13 years ago

Originally Posted by bobsedge

If you get your domains through 1and1.com, domain privacy is free.

Also Namecheap.com has it for free & they're only $9.69/yr (just renewed a domain). I don't like receiving mail from companies trying to get me to renew my domain with them or sending me bogus "bills" in regards to my sites, or telemarketing calls (which is what I got when my address was available). For that reason, I use the free privacy guard.

Cynthia
- Thanks
Signature
[WSO]: Learn the The Easiest Way To Get Your Emails OPENED So You Can SELL MORE & MAKE MORE MONEY! Find out here

Is It Worth The Money?
Video Reviews of Internet Marketing Products: The Good, the Bad & the Ugly. www.IsItWorthTheMoney.com
{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869383].message }}

BIG Mike

Banned 13 years ago

[DELETED]

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869234].message }}

RWilt 13 years ago

Originally Posted by BIG Mike

....Chances are, the average person is not going to go look up your domain (or even know how).

Totally agree, that many of the online customers wouldn't know how to find the information.

I do think it really depends on the niche and how comfortable you are that your information is there. If you are trying to build passive income and not a full time online business, there is no problem with using the privacy.

I use privacy on about half of my sites... one of my niche sites I got a call at about 3am asking me to elaborate on something in one of my posts. One more just today from my product site, a cold sales call about a great new system the person has come up with to increase my traffic... unacceptable in my opinion.

So roundabout way to say the privacy is good and bad in certain instances, but I like using it most of the time.
- Thanks
Signature
http://www.WiltProductions.com Quality and affordable voice overs for your needs.
{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869379].message }}

NeoEclipse

13 years ago

I'm under the assumption you have to have open domains when sending emails to be can spam complaint. But thats for email only i believe. Not sure if you would get in trouble doing it on other things. But having a contact page or something similar would allow you to block your domains on your sites

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869454].message }}

cjed2061

13 years ago

I buy it just to be on the safe side. Maybe I'm paranoid. I just don't like having my personal info hanging out there. I don't care too much about spam...its easy to trash I just don't want some freak showing up at my door someday because the ad said "up to 20 pounds a month" and they felt they would loose "at least 20 pounds a month". Ya know?

Thanks

Signature

Having trouble figuring out where to start? Try Commission Ritual
Super easy video based training will get you on your way to Internet Marketing success!

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[1869967].message }}

TheIMKoala

13 years ago

Originally Posted by honestbizpro

Sometimes you may have a client who wants to see your work or applying to CPA networks or stuff of that sort..there are certainly ways around it but that is one fast and easy way for people to see that you know what you are doing with your real own web property.

Are there CPA networks (or other affiliate managers) that would decline your app if you had domain privacy? I've always had it just to protect me from a violent ex, but I'd hate to think it's why I've been denied affiliate status...

Thanks
1 reply

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2000085].message }}

Dan C. Rinnert 13 years ago

I use it when:

a) It's free, so why not?

b) Protecting future sites. If people don't know I own a domain, they can't know what I'm planning.

c) Keep politicians from prying. (Had an article on a site once that was contrary to a politician's agenda. He didn't like that.)
- Thanks
Signature

Dan's content is irregularly read by handfuls of people. Join the elite few by reading his blog: dcrBlogs.com, following him on Twitter: dcrTweets.com or reading his fiction: dcrWrites.com but NOT by Clicking Here!

Dan also writes content for hire, but you can't afford him anyway.
{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2000124].message }}

Jon Tees

13 years ago

I feel its most definitely worth it. It allows you the freedom of not having to deal with disgruntled customers when you are off the clock. Some customers will fault you and hold you responsible for things that are way beyond the scope of your control. And many won't think twice about calling you at home or showing up at your door.

It also protects your niches from competitors and protects you from receiving spam and other junk from unscrupulous people.

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2000732].message }}

Sarah Russell

13 years ago

My real name, which I use when registering websites, is very distinctive, so having it unprotected online would make it very easy to track me down - PO Box or no. Personally, I don't want this information to be that easily accessible (although, yes, I know that anyone who really wants to track me down is going to figure it out, one way or another).

The last time I Google searched my name, a domain that I'd forgotten about (on which the Whois guard protection had expired) popped up on the first page - my home address and everything hanging out right there...

Thanks
1 reply

Signature

Common Sense Marketing | Sarah Russell Writing Services | Getting Started with CPA Ads[/center]

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2000782].message }}

CDarklock

13 years ago

Originally Posted by Sarah Russell

My real name, which I use when registering websites, is very distinctive, so having it unprotected online would make it very easy to track me down - PO Box or no.

You know, we have this thing we say in the software industry.

Always write your software as though the user is a crazy psychopath who knows where you live.

It's amazing how much less frustrating the system becomes when the programmers start thinking "this person could walk up and ring my doorbell with a bag full of knives and raw chicken."

Why not run your business the same way? A healthy fear of what your customers could do to you is not such a bad idea.

Thanks

Signature

"The Golden Town is the Golden Town no longer. They have sold their pillars for brass and their temples for money, they have made coins out of their golden doors. It is become a dark town full of trouble, there is no ease in its streets, beauty has left it and the old songs are gone." - Lord Dunsany, The Messengers

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2081470].message }}

Jon Tees

13 years ago

I would reiterate that yes it is indeed worth it. Someone attempted to sell my friend the .net and .com version of a .info domain name that he registered for a niche blog in a certain location. The domain name contained a specific geographic region and a specific product. It was of no use to anyone not selling that product in his region. I told him to get private registration, but like so many he thought it was just an added expense and look what happened.

Thanks
1 reply

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2071386].message }}

GuerrillaIM

13 years ago

Originally Posted by Jon Tees

I would reiterate that yes it is indeed worth it. Someone attempted to sell my friend the .net and .com version of a .info domain name that he registered for a niche blog in a certain location. The domain name contained a specific geographic region and a specific product. It was of no use to anyone not selling that product in his region. I told him to get private registration, but like so many he thought it was just an added expense and look what happened.

What happened?

Thanks
1 reply

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2071441].message }}

Jon Tees

13 years ago

Originally Posted by GuerrillaIM

What happened?

Its sort of weird. He registered a .info domain with his state initials and product name in it. This would have been of little or no value to anyone not selling this product in his state. He basically left the .com, .net and .org variations of the domain name on the table, so to speak electing not to take them at the time. They were still available until a few days ago. He did nothing to promote the domain and didn't do anything aside from putting up a Wordpress blog that he never posted anything to. Then he receives an e-mail a few days ago from someone from the United Kingdom of all places who says they can get him a deal on the soon to be expiring .net version of his domain name, he runs a check on the .com and finds that this has also now be taken. Its a fact that the .net, .com, and .org version of the domain were still available this time last week and that someone purchased the .net and .com versions specifically to attempt to sell them to him.

Thanks
2 replies

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2071478].message }}

GuerrillaIM

13 years ago

Originally Posted by Jon Tees

Its sort of weird. He registered a .info domain with his state initials and product name in it. This would have been of little or no value to anyone not selling this product in his state. He basically left the .com, .net and .org variations of the domain name on the table, so to speak electing not to take them at the time. They were still available until a few days ago. He did nothing to promote the domain and didn't do anything aside from putting up a Wordpress blog that he never posted anything to. Then he receives an e-mail a few days ago from someone from the United Kingdom of all places who says they can get him a deal on the soon to be expiring .net version of his domain name, he runs a check on the .com and finds that this has also now be taken. Its a fact that the .net, .com, and .org version of the domain were still available this time last week and that someone purchased the .net and .com versions specifically to attempt to sell them to him.

Hehe, domain traders make me laugh. Like the guys who setup free domain checkers and then do a pre-registration on all domains checked to lock domain registration and then ask you to fork up $500. Glad the rules on pre-registration have changed now.

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2071562].message }}

TheWorker 13 years ago

Yes, I'd say domain privacy is worth it, especially in the internet marketing world. As i don't have a PO Box, I'd rather not give out my home address and phone number.

I researched and found that domain privacy is not perfect and it is still possible to get your details, but it will take manual measures.

Another free domain privacy service i use is at NameGuard.com
- Thanks
- 1 reply
{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2071660].message }}
- SmartFX 13 years ago
  
  Domain privacy is very important in the current time because today's notorious marketers and criminals are seeking your information desperately for their own profit.
  
  So to keep your information safe you are in very need of domain privacy services. They will hide your information from WHOIS database and save them into web host.
  
  Some of similar type companies are HostMonster and HostPapa.
  
  Thanks
  
  Signature
  Trade Forex Smart Not Hard
  
  {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2080579].message }}

James Campbell

13 years ago

Originally Posted by LilBlackDress

I have a PO box and run ethical quality sites. So far I have been buying domain privacy but I am starting to wonder what am I gaining from it?

I would love to learn your thoughts regarding domain privacy.

Netfirms.com - Always free domain privacy included in the domain price which is usually anywhere between 6.99 and 9.99, for all .com, .net, .org domains at least.

Stop paying for privacy at other places it is such a scam that really requires no charge on their part.

James

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2071620].message }}

Ernie Lo

13 years ago

I've never bothered with it either.

If Bluehost think I'm going to spend an extra $4.95 or whatever it is (per domain) for something they use to offer for free, then they are dreaming!

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2080621].message }}

CDarklock

13 years ago

Originally Posted by LilBlackDress

I would love to learn your thoughts regarding domain privacy.

It is an abomination and ought to be illegal.

I never use it.

You shouldn't either.

If you don't want your home address on your domains, get a business address. You're in business, you should have those anyway.

Thanks

Signature

"The Golden Town is the Golden Town no longer. They have sold their pillars for brass and their temples for money, they have made coins out of their golden doors. It is become a dark town full of trouble, there is no ease in its streets, beauty has left it and the old songs are gone." - Lord Dunsany, The Messengers

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2080675].message }}

Jon Tees

13 years ago

Some providers will offer you a bundled service where you can get domain privacy, ownership protection and a business directory listing for just a few dollars extra per year, than you would pay to get privacy on its own. I tend to opt for this for domains that I definitely want to keep for a long period of time. I’ve been the victim of unwanted spam/junk mail and attempted scams in the past due to not having domain privacy. So to me its definitely worth it to avoid the annoyance the “Hey, did you know this website (similar to my domain or my exact domain with a different extension.) is about to expire even though it was available just a few short days ago? Phone me here in the U.K. for a domain with ny and a niche product in the title and we’ll talk about your price.”

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2081157].message }}

Frank Ayres

13 years ago

I use it because it is free and my business address is my home address and i dont want everyone knowing where i live

Thanks

Signature

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2081188].message }}

André Silverspoon

13 years ago

The domain privacy feature is often seen as the 'ultimate protection' on WHOIS info. Just a simple search online would leads you to dozens of articles stating the benefits of domain privacy. Spam protection and info shielding are two of the most trumpeted benefits of a domain privacy feature. It is like a firewall in computer network - it simply shields your info from the public but your data is still kept in registrar's database and there is still risk of info leaking. Is private information 100% protected under domain privacy feature? Not really. In many cases, it's just a feature people buy to help them to sleep better at night.

Thanks

Signature

http://AndreSilverspoon.com

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[2081503].message }}

Nail Yener

9 years ago

Originally Posted by LilBlackDress

I have a PO box and run ethical quality sites. So far I have been buying domain privacy but I am starting to wonder what am I gaining from it?

I would love to learn your thoughts regarding domain privacy.

If you are not sure if it is worth it that means it is not worth it for you. I don't use domain privacy because I have no reason to. And I didn't have any issues because of not having domain privacy on dozens of domains/websites in the last 5 years.

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[9210190].message }}

icoachu

8 years ago

Personally, domain privacy is WORTH IT...

Why?

There are just so many spammers and info harvesters out there.

Who needs the hassle?

If you're worried about Godaddy's privacy fees, switch to Namesilo or other registrars who offer FREE whois privacy.

Thanks

Signature

Need FREE TRAFFIC?! Need BETTER RESULTS? - Click Here To Find Out How

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[10093913].message }}

Domain Privacy - Is It Really Worth It?

Trending Topics

Melbourne International Flower Show 2023

Where to find brokers / introducers?

How can I find a designer developer to create a great landing page for my course offer?

Bard VS ChatGPT

How many conversions should I require? (paid ads question)