Whois is currently the most convenient way to find out information about specific domain names. Using the Whois database, you are able to find out who registered a certain domain name, who can be contacted about the domain and who the registrar is and if the domain name has been registered. Whois databases are normally maintained by individual registrars as opposed to having a central registry. Even though the systems may not automatically update themselves, the updates happen every 24 hours. Here is what you need to know about using Bulk Whois lookup to do security research.
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Looking up general information
The platform is actually quite easy to use. When you want to find out whether a domain name is taken up, you just type it in. If it has not been registered, no results will show up. On the other hand, if it has been registered, you get details such as the domain ID, the URL of the registrar, creation and expiry dates, abuse contact information, domain status, the ICANN URL and other related data. This basic information helps you figure out how to handle basic queries and issues related to domain names and IP addresses.
The special features that come with the Bulk Whois lookup
Using the Bulk Whois lookup, you can bulk load and conduct mass queries. Second, you will be in a position to import and export Whois data. When you have the purchased version, you get free updates. Other information which is offered includes parsed and raw Whois data for downloads like database dumps, the information is normalized and parsed so you can integrate it well with your business processes. The tool is therefore really beneficial for security research.
The challenges that come with Bulk Whois
If you are a cyber security researcher, you will find Whois very practical for investigating and curbing possible instances of cyber-crime. However, it is important to note that most people whose intention is to commit cybercrime might not list their real details when registering domain names, which limits its use to some extent. However, it forms a great starting point in the investigation especially because they will reuse most of that information across multiple domains which makes it easier to group them. Also, when a scammer is carrying out their operations, they will gladly use the same information, fake or otherwise, for years, which makes their pattern easier to identify.
Bulk Whois lookup offers security research solutions in a lot of situations. Payment transaction processors such as banks use the system to find and curb transaction fraud before it happens, law enforcement agencies rely on the data to do background checks during cases, and marketing researchers also use the service to get domain details and figure out the purpose of the domain. Whois can also be used by individual businesses to get API for their domain records. The essential thing is to make sure that the system is monitored and all data which is recorded analyzed to figure out its implications on your business.
