ICANN 60 day lock: what is it and does it matter?

If you’ve ever tried to transfer a domain from one registrar to another, you may have run into an unexpected delay – the 60-day ICANN lock. This restriction can throw a wrench in your website launch, hinder your ability to change hosts, or even affect a business deal. So, what exactly is this, uhm, “lock”? Why is it necessary, and can it be avoided? Let’s find out!

OK, so what is ICANN and what role does it play?

ICANN stands for the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers. It is a nonprofit organization that oversees the global coordination of the Domain Name System (DNS) and ensures the stable and secure operation of the internet. In simple terms, ICANN helps protect users from fraud, maintains the integrity of the network, and ensures the smooth functioning of the domain name system.

What does a “60-Day Domain Lock” mean?

A 60-day domain transfer lock is a safeguard put in place by ICANN that prevents the transfer of a domain from one registrar to another for 60 days after certain changes are made. Think of it as a protective barrier that keeps your domain safe during critical transitions.

This lock kicks in automatically in situations like:

• changing the domain owner’s first name, last name, or email address;
• switching to a different registrar;
• occasionally, moving a domain between accounts under the same registrar.

The primary goal of this rule is to shield domain owners from unauthorized transfers, which can occur due to account compromises, phishing attempts, or unauthorized changes to contact details. It acts as a security buffer, giving the rightful owner a crucial window to spot and address any suspicious activity.

Important. Keep in mind that this lock only affects registrar-to-registrar transfers. It won’t interfere with your website’s functionality, DNS settings, or your ability to manage the domain within your current registrar’s control panel.

Why is it important to consider this when managing a domain?

A 60-day lock can significantly impact essential business processes, especially if you’re caught off guard. For instance, it could delay a project launch, hinder a domain sale, or complicate the management of a large domain portfolio. Being aware of this restriction ahead of time can save you from unexpected headaches down the road.

How can you avoid or minimize the impact of a lock?

1. Plan your domain transfer before updating WHOIS information

If you’re gearing up to switch registrars, hold off on making any changes to your domain’s contact details until the transfer is complete. Keep your WHOIS data as is until the transfer is finalized to steer clear of any unexpected delays.

2. Check if you can opt out of the lock

Some registrars provide the option to waive the 60-day lock when you change contact information – but only if the domain owner gives the green light for the update. Be sure to check this option in your account settings or reach out to support for confirmation.

3. Always promptly confirm changes via E-mail

To keep the lock from kicking in, make it a habit to approve any ownership or contact changes as soon as you receive the confirmation email. Delayed approvals can trigger the lock automatically, so staying on top of it is key.

ICANN regulation and policy

ICANN’s Transfer Policy requires registrars to place a 60-day transfer lock when certain domain registration details (like the owner’s name or E-mail) are modified.

This rule is designed to safeguard against unauthorized transfers stemming from account theft, phishing, or fraudulent activity.

While some registrars may offer the option to opt out of the lock by manually confirming changes, this isn’t a guarantee and can vary from one provider to another. Word on the street is that SpaceLama Domain Registrar is pretty flexible on it, though.

Can you appeal or remove the lock?

In most cases, the answer is no. The 60-day lock is applied automatically and typically cannot be removed unless your registrar has specific exceptions in place. However, if you suspect that your registrar isn’t adhering to ICANN policy, you can file a complaint at ICANN Compliance.

Need help managing your domains?

The 60-day ICANN lock is a built-in security feature that won’t go away anytime soon. But that doesn’t mean it has to slow you down. If you’re planning to transfer a domain, change hosting providers, or launch a new website, the SpaceLama team is here to help you handle it smoothly, securely, and without unnecessary delays.