auLOCKDOWN
Fast track (Summarised definition)
auLOCKDOWN is a premium security service for Australian (.au) domain names that provides enhanced protection against unauthorised domain hijacking and malicious modifications. This service locks domain records and requires manual verification through human authentication processes for any changes, preventing automated modifications and ensuring only genuinely authorised individuals can modify domain settings or transfer ownership.
Full lap (Full definition)
auLOCKDOWN is a premium security service offered by AusRegistry specifically for Australian (.au) domain names that provides enhanced protection against unauthorised domain hijacking and malicious modifications. This service allows .au domain name owners to lock their domain name records and prevent unauthorised changes by adding an additional layer of authorisation at the .au registry level.The lockdown prevents a registrar from using the application protocol interface (API) to AusRegistry's domain register portal, and allows registrars to automatically update the registry over an authenticated channel. When auLOCKDOWN is activated, all changes to critical domain settings require manual verification through human authentication processes rather than automated systems.
To activate and deactivate the auLOCKDOWN service, domain owners must contact their registrar, who then contacts AusRegistry. It's a manual process that relies on comprehensive customer identification and authentication procedures. This multi-step verification ensures that only genuinely authorised individuals can modify domain records, DNS settings, or transfer ownership.
The service addresses growing concerns about domain hijacking incidents that have affected high-profile websites globally. auLOCKDOWN combats incidents like those seen with the New York Times by preventing mistakes from occurring where domain names are accidentally updated, while also stopping malicious attacks.
Pricing typically ranges from $200 to $1,000 annually, depending on the registrar, making it primarily suited to high-value domains and businesses requiring maximum security. The service is particularly valuable for organisations whose online presence is critical to their operations or brand reputation.
For Australian businesses, auLOCKDOWN represents the highest level of domain security available, offering peace of mind through verified human oversight of all domain modifications whilst maintaining normal website functionality during regular operations.