Why Secure Domain Transfers Are Important
Transferring a domain name from one owner to another may seem like a straightforward process, but ensuring a secure and error-free transfer is critical to protecting both the buyer and seller. A poorly executed transfer can lead to delays, financial loss, or even domain theft, making it essential to follow best practices.
Whether you’re selling a domain, buying one, or moving it to a different registrar, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure a safe, efficient, and secure domain transfer.
Why Secure Domain Transfers Are Important
A domain name is a valuable digital asset, and failing to transfer it securely can lead to:
- Unauthorized Access & Hijacking: If proper security measures aren’t in place, bad actors can hijack a domain during the transfer.
- Loss of Ownership: If a buyer does not follow best practices, they risk losing the domain after payment.
- Delays & Technical Errors: Incorrect information or misconfigured DNS settings can cause website downtime.
- Scams & Fraud: Some buyers and sellers fall victim to domain transfer scams, making secure payments and verification essential.
Following the correct procedures and using secure methods ensures a smooth transaction for both parties while protecting the domain from unauthorized control.
Step-by-Step Guide to Securely Transferring a Domain Name
Step 1: Verify Ownership and Check Transfer Eligibility
Before a domain can be transferred, the seller must verify that:
✅ They own the domain and have access to the registrar account.
✅ The domain is at least 60 days old (ICANN rules prevent transferring domains within 60 days of registration or previous transfer).
✅ The domain is not locked for security reasons (registrars often have a “Transfer Lock” feature enabled by default).
✅ The domain does not have active disputes, holds, or legal restrictions preventing the transfer.
How to check this:
- Log into the domain registrar (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains).
- Look for “Domain Lock” or “Transfer Lock” settings and disable it.
- Ensure the WHOIS information is accurate and up to date.
Step 2: Prepare the Domain for Transfer
The seller must take the following actions:
- Unlock the Domain – Disable any registrar transfer lock settings.
- Retrieve the Authorization Code (EPP Code) – This unique key is required for domain transfers and is provided by the registrar.
- Disable WHOIS Privacy Protection (If Enabled) – Many registrars hide personal details for security, but some require WHOIS privacy to be turned off for a transfer to proceed.
Pro Tip: Some registrars send authorization codes to the registrant’s email address, so double-check that the correct email is on file before requesting the transfer.
Step 3: Use a Trusted Escrow Service for Payment (For Buyers & Sellers)
If you are buying or selling a domain, it’s important to use a secure payment method to protect against fraud.
💰 The safest option: Escrow.com – This third-party service holds the payment in a secure account until the domain transfer is complete.
How it works:
- Buyer deposits payment into Escrow.com.
- Seller transfers the domain to the buyer.
- Buyer confirms they have received the domain.
- Escrow.com releases the funds to the seller.
🚫 Avoid risky payment methods: Never use PayPal Friends & Family, bank wire transfers, or cryptocurrency without escrow protection—these are harder to dispute in case of fraud.
Step 4: Initiate the Transfer to the Buyer’s Registrar
Once payment has been secured through escrow, the buyer must start the transfer process.
🔄 Steps for the Buyer:
- Log into their domain registrar (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains).
- Select “Transfer a Domain” and enter the domain name.
- Input the Authorization Code (EPP Code) provided by the seller.
- Confirm and approve the transfer.
Once initiated, the transfer typically takes between 5 to 7 days to complete, depending on the registrars involved.
✅ Seller’s Final Responsibility: The seller should confirm that the domain has been transferred and remove it from their registrar account once the process is complete.
Step 5: Verify the Transfer & Update Domain Settings
After the transfer is complete, the buyer should:
✔ Confirm the domain appears in their new registrar account.
✔ Update DNS settings (if needed) to ensure the website functions correctly.
✔ Enable WHOIS privacy protection (to protect personal information).
✔ Re-enable security settings such as domain lock and 2FA for extra security.
🚀 Best Practice: Keep transaction records (emails, receipts, Escrow.com confirmations) for future reference in case of disputes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Transferring a Domain
🛑 Failing to Use Escrow – Always use Escrow.com or another secure method to prevent scams.
🛑 Not Unlocking the Domain – If the domain lock is left on, the transfer will fail.
🛑 Incorrect Contact Information – Ensure WHOIS details are up-to-date so authorization emails are received.
🛑 Not Checking Registrar-Specific Transfer Rules – Some registrars have unique requirements for domain transfers.
Final Thoughts: The Safest Way to Transfer a Domain Name
Transferring a domain name securely is not just about moving it from one registrar to another—it’s about ensuring both the buyer and seller are protected.
By following the best practices in this guide—using Escrow.com, verifying ownership, disabling security locks, and confirming the transfer after completion—both parties can avoid risks, delays, and potential fraud.
🔹 Selling a domain? Make sure you’re following a secure transaction process.
🔹 Buying a domain? Always use a trusted escrow service to protect your purchase.
🚀 Looking to buy or sell a domain? Easy Acquisitions makes it fast, safe, and hassle-free—contact us today to get started!
