ICANN Policy
Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers — the governing body for domain names worldwide.
What is ICANN?
ICANN is a nonprofit organization that coordinates the global Internet's domain name system (DNS), IP addresses, and protocol parameters. Every domain registrar operates under ICANN accreditation and policy.
Registrant Rights & Responsibilities
As a domain registrant under ICANN policy, you have the right to:
- Clear information about registration processes and ICANN policies
- Accurate and up-to-date WHOIS data requirements
- Domain transfer rights under ICANN's Transfer Policy
- Access to your registrar's full terms and conditions
- File complaints through ICANN's compliance channels
WHOIS Accuracy
ICANN requires accurate WHOIS contact information for every domain. Providing false information can result in domain suspension or cancellation under the WHOIS Accuracy Program.
Domain Transfer Policy
Key transfer rules: 60-day lock after registration or transfer; EPP/authorization code required from losing registrar; transfer must complete within 5 days of initiation; no transfer if domain is within 60 days of expiry.
Expired Registration Recovery (ERRP)
ICANN's ERRP mandates clear communication about domain expiration, renewal grace periods, and redemption processes. Domains typically enter a 30-day redemption period post-expiry before becoming available for re-registration.
UDRP — Dispute Resolution
The Uniform Domain-Name Dispute Resolution Policy provides a framework for resolving disputes when a domain registration allegedly infringes on a trademark. UDRP proceedings are handled by ICANN-approved providers.
Resources
Full ICANN policies: icann.org · For WHOIS complaints: icann.org/whois
