SA internet bodies outline remedies for .za domain fraud

Source: Magnific

The three organisations have published an advisory outlining the available remedies for different types of domain-related fraud, including fake websites, scam emails and domains impersonating legitimate businesses.

The advisory sets out different processes depending on how a fraudulent domain or website is being used.

Different fraud, different remedies

Where a South African-hosted website is being used fraudulently, users may be able to have it taken down through Ispa’s Take-Down Notice (TDN) process.

Where a .za domain is being used for fraud but has no associated website, such as when it is used to send scam emails, the Zarc anti-abuse and take-down process may allow the domain to be suspended.

The same process may apply where a website uses a .za domain but is hosted outside South Africa.

Businesses whose names or brands are being impersonated through a .za domain can also make use of the .za Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process, which may result in the domain being transferred to them. The formal dispute process generally involves a cost.

Ispa said the advisory is intended to provide internet users with guidance on reporting domain-related fraud and navigating the relevant processes.

Local processes provide options

“Online fraud involving .za domain names can take different forms, and there are remedies available for each type,” said Ant Brooks, Ispa spokesman.

Examples include fake banking websites, fraudulent government tender communications and messages claiming to come from relatives offering an inheritance.

The organisations distinguish these cases from fraud that does not involve a .za domain or a website hosted in South Africa.

Victims of substantial fraud should report it to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and notify the National Cybersecurity Hub, according to the advisory. Where scammers are based outside the country, however, victims may have fewer options.

Zarc is the contracted registry operator for South Africa’s commercial second-level domains, while .zadna manages and regulates the .za namespace.

Ispa, which was founded in 1996, represents South Africa’s internet service provider sector and is recognised by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT).