posted on February 23, 2001 04:02:35 AM
If you registered a domain with Network Solutions, Inc ... brace yourself! They (now called Verisign) are selling off the contact info. Marketing companies can buy your name, address, and phone number.
http://www.msnbc.com/news/533619.asp
"“Available for the first time ever. Approximately 6 million unique customers, sliced and diced for you to target prospects, learn about a specific audience or retain customers,” the VeriSign ad proclaims. “Take this information and run with it.”
posted on February 23, 2001 04:23:44 AM
Hmm, was wondering how a domain name I registered at Dotster garnered me a call from D&B on my unlisted phone # asking about my business. I wonder if Dotster also sold its list...
posted on February 23, 2001 04:35:15 AM
Someone could have scavenged Dotster. They claim no spam in their TOS, but there are sleazebags who regularly query for all new domains and sell the lists.
I give my FAX machine's number and a PO box. Fortunately, Verisign never updated the contact info correctly so all the marketing is aimed at a PO Box I no longer use, in a town I no linger live in.
posted on February 23, 2001 04:35:25 AM
Thanks for the heads up -- almost makes you long for the good old days when buisness was done on a handshake and company was only as good as their word....(please note, I said almost. In the good old days I wouldn't have been allowed to start a company because I should be at home barefoot and preggers...But I digress)
Contact your rep in Congress and tell them that you want to see legislation restricting this kind of data trade and want stronger net protection policies.
Don't know who your rep is (most people don't). Surf over to:
http://www.house.gov/writerep/
and fill out the form on the right. And don't forget to lobby your state government too.
