How do I keep my domain registration private?
Enable WHOIS privacy
The most direct way is to turn on WHOIS privacy in your registrar's control panel. This replaces your contact info with a proxy's details. Most registrars offer this as an add-on, and some include it free.
If your registrar doesn't offer privacy, you can transfer your domain to one that does. Transfers usually require unlocking the domain and getting an authorization code, and can take 5–7 days.
Use non-personal contact details
Even with privacy, you should provide accurate contact info to your registrar because they need to reach you. But you can use a separate email address (like a free webmail account) and a business address or PO box if you have one.
For phone, consider a Google Voice number or a business line. This way, if your WHOIS record ever becomes public (e.g., if privacy lapses), your personal details aren't exposed.
- Use a dedicated email for domain registrations.
- Consider a PO box or virtual business address.
- Use a secondary phone number for WHOIS contacts.
- Keep your registrar account secure with 2FA.
Check TLD rules
Not all domain extensions allow full privacy. For example, .us and .ca have restrictions, and some country-code TLDs require public contact info. Check your registrar's documentation for your specific extension.
Also, if you're in the EU, GDPR may already redact some WHOIS data, but that's not universal. Don't rely on it—privacy services are still the safest bet.
Common mistakes
- Thinking you can hide your identity completely—registrars must collect accurate contact info for legal reasons.
- Forgetting to renew privacy—if it lapses, your details can become public again.
- Using fake contact info—this can lead to domain suspension if the registrar can't reach you.