Be Cautious When Checking Domain Name Availability

You may already know where to go to check domain name availability. But be cautious.

A practice called "front running" or "domain tasting" could cause your chosen name to become unavailable after you check it.

When you check the availability of a domain name, some domain registrars will put the name on hold for four days. Although most do this for their own protection, it's unfair to the consumer. Why? Because it means you cannot buy the domain name from any other registrar for four days. One registrar that does this charges $30 for a domain name, a ridiculously high fee. A domain name shouldn't cost you more than $10.

Some really unscrupulous domain name registrars will keep the domain and use it for their own profit.

Here's an article that explains the problem well:

Who Is Really Monitoring Your Domain Searches?

Another resource is the domain section of the Web Hosting Talk forum, where you can ask questions about checking and registering domain names:

Web Hosting Talk - Domain Name Sub-Forum

In fact, I found the article referenced above through that forum.

The Simplest Solution

It appears that the best way to deal with this is to have a solid idea of what you want your domain name to be when you check its availability.

If it's available, register it right away.

Before you do that, though, be sure to read the page on choosing a domain registrar.

Meanwhile, I'll keep my eyes open for tips about protecting yourself when checking domain names. When I find them, I'll publish them here.