Domain Name Registry of America

March 20, 2018 Article

Domain Name Registry of America tricks unsuspecting folks by sending them mail or email that looks like legit invoices. Here’s how it works:

  • I register your domain name and bill you for it.
  • A year goes by and, prior to renewal date, Domain Registry of America (DROA) sends you a letter telling you that it is time to renew. This letter is carefully structured to look like an invoice in hopes that you’ll pay. (Wrapped in the text there is a carefully worded disclaimer that it isn’t an invoice but how many of us read every bit of detail in those invoices before paying?).
  • You quickly scan the “invoice” and, knowing it is about time to renew, send a check or credit card info to renew the domain name.
  • I send you an invoice to renew the domain name which you may pay also or (hopefully) question why you are being double billed.
  • I also get a notice from DROA requesting the domain be transferred to their system.
  • I contact you to explain what happened and recommend that you contact DROA to demand a refund.
  • If you take time out of your busy day to do so, you’ll likely get a refund eventually. If not, they’ve just made money on their deception.

Warning to my clients: Do not pay domain name invoices from other companies. If you aren’t sure, a quick call to me can save us both a lot of aggravation. DROA has been taken to court before on this and I’m sure they will again. Don’t get involved with them if at all possible. If you do get tricked, call me and I’ll help you get it resolved.