Nominet Increases Security By Adding 2-Factor Authentication To .UK Domain Names

Nominet announced that it is boosting the security of the UK namespace to help protect it from attack and exploitation. As part of this, they will be offering two-factor authentication access to their Online Services (OS) to registrars later on this year. Two-factor authentication is a two-step verification process and provides an extra layer of security to users accessing online systems.

Nominet is running a limited pilot in September and it will be inviting a small number of registrars to take part. For the pilot, Nominet is selecting those who have approached us about this service in the past, in particular the brand protection sector, and those who log into the Nominet OS most frequently.

Following a successful pilot, two-factor authentication will be offered to all registrars wishing to use it later on this year. The new security feature will have a phased rollout, with registrants being offered this service at a later date.

Two-factor authentication improves security as an intruder would have to gain access to the device where it is installed, as well as acquiring knowledge of the password/passphrase. This new service will reduce the risk of DNS hijacking or confidential information being compromised.

Two-factor authentication will be free and optional for registrars. It uses the Google Authenticator app and plug-in, which are freely available on all major platforms. The current password and optional passphrase system will remain in place and registrars may still choose to use it as an appropriate security measure.

This new service complements the existing Domain Lock service which is aimed at individual domains requiring a high level of protection. It is part of a suite of initiatives in Nominet’s work to extend existing products and services and enhance the security of, and trust in, UK domains.