Threats targeting domain names
A domain name is the heart of your online presence (website, emails, API). If it is compromised, your entire infrastructure collapses. The main attacks are:
- Domain Hijacking: A hacker takes control of the management interface at your registrar and transfers the domain to his name.
- DNS Spoofing / Cache Poisoning: Hijacking traffic to malicious servers without users' knowledge.
- Forgetting to renew: An involuntary loss of the domain which is then bought by cybersquatters.
Good security practices (Checklist)
1. Enable transfer lock (Registrar Lock)
This is the first line of defense. Registrar Lock prevents unauthorized transfer of the domain to another registrar. This option must always be activated in your service provider's interface, unless you voluntarily make a transfer.
2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
Access to your Registrar's account must be absolutely protected. Multi-factor authentication (MFA/2FA) will prevent an attacker from logging in even if they manage to steal your password.
3. Deploy DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions)
DNSSEC adds a cryptographic signature layer to your DNS records. It assures visitors that the IP address provided by the DNS server has not been tampered with en route. Most modern registrars allow DNSSEC to be enabled with one click.
4. Manage access (Least privilege)
Never share your administrator credentials with your web agency or your colleagues. Use the rights delegation features or create limited access (read only for billing, technical access for the webmaster).
Monitoring and renewal
A large number of domains are lost each year due to forgetting. Enable auto-renew and make sure the credit card associated with your account is up to date. Also make sure that the owner's contact email address (Admin-C) does not correspond to an address linked to the domain itself (risk of blocking if the domain expires).