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Beware of Domain Listing Service Scams

3 MINUTES TO READ
Beware of Domain Listing Service Scams

Several of our clients have asked about “Website Listing Service” letters and what they should do with them. These letters are sent to your home and appear to offer an annual website domain listing for around $200-$300. They look legit, especially if you have a website and pay for a domain. But they are a scam. 

If you own a domain name and you’re not using a domain name privacy service, your full name and address are public information. This is where scammers get their information and then use it to target vulnerable people. 

What are Domain Listing Scam Invoices? 

Domain listing scam invoices appear to be valid and trustworthy. They include a logo, account number, your contact information and your domain name. But these statements are not to be trusted. It doesn’t matter if the statement says it’s to register your domain name, keep your site active or optimize your website – it’s all a sham. 

Now, you might be asking, “Don’t I need a domain for my website?” Yes, you do. But when you work with a company like WSI Internet Partners, this is already included in the fees you pay. We are a one-stop resource for managing all aspects of your online presence. You DO NOT need to pay any other fees to keep your website up and running. 

How Can I Tell for Sure the Letter is a Scam? 

If you’re still concerned about whether or not the letter is legit, you can do your research and look into the company and its rating on the BBB. Domain Listings LLC, for example, is a frequent name found on these website listing service letters. The company has a 1.5 star rating on the BBB and 224 complaints. So even though this is a “real” business, they don’t have a good reputation. 

Here are some other ways to tell the validity of your letter: 

  • Examine all of the documents. Usually, domain name registration renewals are sent to your email. 
  • Check for contact info. Some, but not all, scam invoices lack visible contact information. If you do see a number, call it to see who answers. 
  • Do a web search. Does the company have a website? Do you see other people complaining about the company? Most scams are reported online by other people. 
  • Know where you get your domain name from. If you purchased your domain name from a company like GoDaddy, you’ll receive an invoice directly from the company. Or, your internet marketing company will handle this on your end. 
  • Know when you’re up for renewal. Usually, you’ll receive an invoice to renew your domain name once a year. If it’s not time to renew your name, the letter is likely a scam. 

Still Have Questions? Contact WSI Internet Partners 

If you’re still unsure about the letter, contact your digital marketing company. WSI Internet Partners is used to dealing with these invoices and we can help determine what they are, where they’re coming from and if you need to pay them. But we can pretty much guarantee that they’re scams, so don’t open up your wallet or share your credit card! We take care of our clients – and this includes choosing and renewing your domain name.

 

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