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Domain Names:WHOIS lookup and registration data disclosure FAQ

Last Updated:Jun 02, 2026

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:

  • Registrant name

  • Administrative contact name

  • Technical contact name

  • Email address

  • Phone number

  • Street address and other contact details

Scope of ICANN policy implementation

Alibaba Cloud applies a unified global standard that:

  • Aligns with ICANN requirements

  • Applies to all users worldwide

  • Provides the same high level of data protection for all users

How to request registration data disclosure

Step 1: Choose an application method

Application method

Procedure

Description

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.

Method 2: Through the Alibaba Cloud complaint channel

  • Online application: File an infringement complaint and request information disclosure through the or the Alibaba Cloud IPR Infringement and Abuse Claim Form. Our team will respond within five business days.

  • Email submission: If you cannot log in, send your request to whoisrequest@service.aliyun.com. Include the domain name, request details, and all supporting documents. Response time: three business days.

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.

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.

Material category

Individual application

Enterprise/organization application

1. Proof of identity

Front and back of the applicant's ID card.

A valid business license or equivalent organizational certificate.

2. Proof of infringement

  1. The domain name or URL in question, with screenshots of the allegedly infringing content.

  2. The specific laws or regulations you believe the respondent has violated.

3. Proof of rights

  1. Your trademark registration certificate, patent certificate, copyright certificate, domain name certificate, or other proof of rights.

  2. If you are not the rights holder, you must also provide a Power of Attorney signed by the rights holder (for individuals) or stamped with the official seal (for enterprises).

  1. Your organization's trademark registration certificate, patent certificate, copyright certificate, domain name certificate, or other proof of rights.

  2. If your organization is not the rights-holding entity, you must also provide a Power of Attorney signed by the rights holder (for individuals) or stamped with the official seal (for enterprises).

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.

5. Additional information

  • Target domain name: The active domain name registered with Alibaba Cloud that is the subject of your request.

  • Requested data: The non-public data fields you are requesting (for example, registrant name and email address).

  • Applicant information: Full name and contact details (phone number and email address) of the applicant or organization.

  • Agent authorization: If submitting on behalf of another party, provide their full name, relationship to this request, and, if applicable, a Power of Attorney or equivalent authorization document.

  • Detailed statement of legitimate interest: A detailed explanation of your purpose for requesting the information and how you will use the data to protect your rights.

  • Country/Region: Your location and all locations where the disclosed information may be shared.

  • Good faith declaration: By submitting this request, you declare it is made in good faith and complies with all listed requirements and authorizations.

Note
  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Scope of disclosure: Approved disclosures are limited to the current registrant's data for the specified domain name.