Domain Transfer Lock: Domains.co.za Becomes First Registrar To Offer Free .co.za Security Feature
1 April, 2025, Johannesburg – Domains.co.za has become the first South African Registrar to offer its .co.za customers a Domain Transfer Lock security feature. This extra security feature is FREE to all of its .co.za, org.za, .net.za, and .web.za domain name customers. It prevents any unauthorised domain transfers and protects customers from domain hijacking.
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Mitigating Cyber Security Threats
Due to the rise in cyber threats, coupled with weak security measures, domain names have become a target for malicious actors. Domain hijacking occurs when someone takes illegal control of a domain and uses it to redirect traffic, steal data, or demand ransom – all of which can cause disruptions and reputational damage.
For this reason, Domain Transfer Lock has been a feature supported by international domains for years. As of this morning, an update by the ZA Registry Consortium (ZARC) now allows domain locking for .co.za, .org.za, .net.za, and .web.za domains, and Domains.co.za is the first Registrar to implement this feature for its clients.
Benefits of the Domain Transfer Lock security feature
- Prevents unauthorised domain transfers.
- Protects against domain hijacking.
- FREE to all Domains.co.za’s .co.za customers, including .org.za, .net.za, and .web.za.
How does a Domain Transfer Lock work?
- Domains.co.za customers can login to their Client Portal and unlock/lock tlheir domains.
- When a domain lock is active, a domain cannot be transferred, as it has to be manually disabled via the Client Portal.
- If a domain transfer attempt is made while the domain is locked, it will be rejected automatically.
IMPORTANT:
From 1st April 2025, Domains.co.za will automatically lock all current and new .co.za, .org.za, .net.za, and .web.za domains, except those that are already in the transfer status.
By enabling the .co.za Domain Transfer Lock by default, Domains.co.za is taking a proactive step in safeguarding South African SMEs, startups, businesses and individuals from the growing threat of domain hijacking. This feature ensures that customers retain full control over their domains, reducing the risk of fraud, website downtime, and potential financial losses. As cyber threats continue to evolve, investing in domain security is no longer optional – it’s essential!
Chantél Venter is a creative writer, strategic thinker, and a serious gesticulator. She’s passionate about storytelling, small businesses and bringing color to the world – be it through her words or wardrobe.
She holds a four-year degree in Business and Mass Media Communication and Journalism. She’s been a copywriter and editor for the technology, insurance and architecture industries since 2007 and believes anybody can run a small business successfully. She therefore enjoys finding and sharing the best and most practical tips for this purpose.