Answers common questions about WHOIS lookup changes and how to request non-public registration data.
Background
On August 21, 2025, ICANN's Registration Data Policy takes effect, replacing the Interim Registration Data Policy. Based on GNSO recommendations, this policy allows registries and registrars to comply with global data protection laws and defines requirements for collecting, transferring, disclosing, and retaining registration data.
Frequently asked questions
Why has the information in a WHOIS lookup changed?
ICANN's Registration Data Policy, effective August 21, 2025, requires registries and registrars to change how they collect and display registration data.
What information has changed in the WHOIS display?
WHOIS lookups no longer display the following personal information:
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Registrant name
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Administrative contact name
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Technical contact name
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Email address
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Phone number
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Street address and other contact details
Scope of ICANN policy implementation
Alibaba Cloud applies a unified global standard that:
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Aligns with ICANN requirements
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Applies to all users worldwide
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Provides the same high level of data protection for all users
How to request registration data disclosure
Step 1: Choose an application method
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Application method |
Procedure |
Description |
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Method 1: Via legal or administrative order (Recommended) |
Apply to a court, public security agency, market regulation authority, or other competent authority to issue a legally binding investigation letter to Alibaba Cloud. |
Alibaba Cloud will cooperate as required by law after verifying the legal documents. |
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Method 2: Through the Alibaba Cloud complaint channel |
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Alibaba Cloud cooperates as required by applicable laws after verifying the report and confirming valid legal documentation. Prepare materials as described in the table below. |
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Method 3: Via the ICANN Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) |
Alibaba Cloud complies with the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP). Disclosure of registration data is part of the UDRP process. |
After you submit a UDRP complaint to an ICANN-accredited dispute resolution provider, the panel may request information directly from Alibaba Cloud. You do not need to file a separate request. Full details are in the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP). |
Step 2: Prepare application materials (if applying through the Alibaba Cloud complaint channel)
Based on your applicant type, prepare clear, color scanned copies of the following documents.
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Material category |
Individual application |
Enterprise/organization application |
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1. Proof of identity |
Front and back of the applicant's ID card. |
A valid business license or equivalent organizational certificate. |
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2. Proof of infringement |
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3. Proof of rights |
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4. Application for WHOIS information disclosure |
WHOIS information disclosure application form A color scanned copy of the application form, signed by the complainant. |
WHOIS information disclosure application form A color scanned copy of the application form, stamped with the complainant's official seal. |
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5. Additional information |
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Review and decision rights: Submission does not guarantee disclosure. Alibaba Cloud decides whether to disclose after evaluating the materials and is not liable for non-disclosure, except as required by law.
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Information reciprocity: If your request is approved and non-public WHOIS data is disclosed to you, Alibaba Cloud reserves the right to disclose your contact information to the respondent.
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Scope of disclosure: Approved disclosures are limited to the current registrant's data for the specified domain name.