The WHOIS database has long been an important resource for anyone requiring details about domain ownership. This database has the domain registrant’s name, registration dates, contact information, and many more. However, due to privacy concerns and the execution of laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, a lot of this information has been redacted or made unavailable to the public.
This shows an important challenge for those who are required to gain WHOIS history data for motives such as legal disputes, cybersecurity investigations, or domain name acquisitions. Apart from these difficulties, there are still ways to retrieve WHOIS history data after redaction. This blog will outline different methods and tools that can be utilized to access historical WHOIS records, even when the details have been unclear or hidden.
Understanding WHOIS Redaction
Before delving deep into the retrieval procedures, it is important to understand why WHOIS details have been redacted. WHOIS redaction is mainly a response to privacy rules like GDPR, which instruct the protection of personal data for people within the European Union. As an outcome, domain registrars have been needed to hide or invisibly certain information in the WHOIS database to obey these regulations. Typical redacted information includes:
- Registrant’s name
- Address
- Email address
- Phone number
In various cases, the only information available is the domain creation date, the registrar’s name, and the expiration date. While this makes sure of obedience to privacy laws, it creates difficulties for those who require full WHOIS information for legal reasons.
Why Retrieve WHOIS History Data?
There are many reasons why one might be required to access WHOIS history data:
- Cybersecurity Investigations
Recognizing the owner of a domain included in spiteful activities can be important for tracking down cybercriminals or saving them from future attacks.
- Legal Disputes
In situations of domain squatting, trademark infringement, or other legal problems, knowing the history of domain ownership can be essential proof.
- Domain Acquisition
When buying a domain, understanding its ownership history can offer insight into its value, any last disputes, or possible risks.
- Research and Analysis
For researchers or analysts, WHOIS data can provide important insights into domain trends, the online presence of organizations, and ownership patterns.
Methods to Retrieve WHOIS History Data
Even with redacted WHOIS data, there are many methods and tools available to approach historical WHOIS records.
Using WHOIS History Services
One of the most successful ways to retrieve historical WHOIS data is by using specific WHOIS history services. These services roll WHOIS records over time and can offer an approach to unredacted historical data. Some famous WHOIS history services include:
- DomainTools
This is one of the most important WHOIS history services available. DomainTools enables users to search for historical WHOIS records, including information that may have been redacted in present records. The service provides a paid subscription model, which offers access to full WHOIS history reports.
- WhoisXMLAPI
WhoisXML API provides a WHOIS history API that gives historical WHOIS data for domains. This service is specifically useful for developers who are required to integrate WHOIS history data into their applications.
- Whoxy
Whoxy is another WHOIS history service that offers access to historical WHOIS data. It provides an easy and instructive interface for searching domain WHOIS history, making it obtainable to both technical and non-technical users.
Using Internet Archives
Another method to retrieve WHOIS history data is by using internet archives. Services like the Wayback Machine archive snapshots of websites over time, which can sometimes involve WHOIS details from the time the snapshot was taken. This procedure is more hit-or-miss, as it depends on the details being publicly shown on the domain’s website at the time of the snapshot.
Consulting Domain Registrars
In some situations, it may be possible to request historical WHOIS data straight from the domain registrar. While registrars need to abide by privacy laws, they may still be able to offer historical data if you have a legal reason for your request. When contacting a registrar:
- Give a valid reason
Properly explain why you are required access to the historical WHOIS data. Cybersecurity investigations, legal disputes, and other legal reasons may increase your chances of getting the details.
- Be ready to prove your identity
Registrars may need you to verify your identity before they release any data.
While this method may not always be successful, it can be worth trying, specifically if other methods fail.
Using Third-Party Data Brokers
Third-party data brokers sometimes obtain and store WHOIS data, including historical records. These brokers arrange data from different sources and may offer access to WHOIS history for a fee. Some examples of data brokers include:
- RiskIQ
Popular for its threat intelligence facilities, RiskIQ also provides WHOIS data services that may involve historical information.
- CybelAngel
This service has a specialty in digital risk protection and may offer access to WHOIS history data as part of its services.
Using third-party data brokers can be more costly, but it may be important if the other procedures do not yield the needed information.
Conclusion
Retrieving WHOIS history data after redaction can be difficult, but it is not impossible. By using professional WHOIS history services, using internet archives, discussing with domain registrars, exploring third-party data brokers, and, if essential, pursuing legal measures, you can access the details you require. Every method has its benefits and limitations, so it is important to think about your particular needs and resources when choosing the right approach.
FAQs
- Which information about a domain can you sometimes get from WHOIS records?
Registration contact information for registrant, admin, and technical contacts. Creation, Sponsoring registrar, expiration dates, and update.
- Which database is asked by WHOIS?
Data stored in the Distributed database system is asked by WHOIS.
- What is the meaning of Domain history?
The domain history tells you almost everything you expect to know about a domain, including if it has a soiled past.
- What type of data is redacted in WHOIS?
WHOIS redaction removes most contact details categorized as personal data from the published WHOIS record for a domain.
