I was alarmed to find out that my domain name has been registered in the name of my ISP and not my own. What is UniForum SA's view on this, and what do I stand to do?
This is quite a common problem in the CO.ZA domain. We continually urge ISP's and other agents not to register domain names in their own names if they are acting on behalf of a client. The correct way would be for the "True" Applicant (The company instructing the ISP, and being the company who ultimately makes regular use the domain name) to be listed in the domain name particulars as the " Applicant", and possibly the Administrative contact. The ISP's particulars can be included as the Technical Contact Person.
Due to the CO.ZA registration process being largely automated, UniForum SA does not (and cannot be expected to) examine the correctness of domain name applications. We must therefor rehttp://www.co.za/spect that the listed "Applicant" of a particular domain name is the person or entity to whom the domain name service is owed. If the listed "Applicant" happens to be your ISP or agent, you are urged to approach them immediately requesting that they correct the domain name particulars reflecting you or your company as the " Applicant".
You may alternatively, if you wish to transfer the domain name yourself, request the current "Applicant" to provide you with authorization to transfer the domain name. In this regard it is extremely important to note that UniForum SA will not consider the manual update of a domain name unless it receives written authority from the current "Applicant" on its official letter head. If the current "Applicant" is a natural person (not a company) a copy of their ID Document/Passport needs to accompany the letter from the individual. Should neither document be available, a Sworn Affidavit from the "Applicant" is required.
It is also pertinent to note that there must be no outstanding amounts due for the domain in question.
(Note: An official letterhead should, amongst others, contain: the company registration number and an indication of all the members or directors.)