Although public access to domain name registration details raises privacy concerns, it benefits those wanting to buy or dispute ownership of domain names or those wanting to trace the source of unsolicited e-mail.
At present, ICANN does not verify the identity of a domain name registrant. For example, the registered owner of the domain name “cherieblair.com” is listed as “DogsAndaLotOfThem”. This contrasts with the system operated by the .uk registration body, Nominet, which requires accurate personal details but does not list them publicly.
ICANN invites comments from any individual or organisation wishing to take part in the survey by the 14th August.