Internet Domain Registration Data Policy Options (DRD-OP)
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
The global system for Internet Domain Registration Data underpins the security, integrity, and accountability of the Internet. Yet the landscape has shifted dramatically: historical open‑access WHOIS models conflicted with modern privacy frameworks like GDPR and emerging national data protection laws. Today, stakeholders across the ecosystem face a fragmented environment—one where:
- Access for legitimate purposes is often restricted or inconsistent,
- Privacy protections are unevenly implemented,
- Responsibilities and expectations across stakeholders are unclear,
- Innovation and security operations are challenged by data gaps.
Study Objectives
ERI convenes global stakeholders to share expertise and develop voluntary, evidence‑based solutions to complex data‑related policy challenges. This study will:
Objectives
- Assess the current state of DRD collection, management, and disclosure.
- Identify lessons learned from past models and regulatory shifts.
- Document stakeholder needs, expectations, and concerns.
- Develop and compare policy options, accompanied by clear implementation guidance.
Our approach combines legal analysis, survey research, comparative policy study, and multistakeholder dialogue.
Methodology
A multi-method research framework:
- Online research, literature review, legal analysis
- Online survey of ecosystem stakeholders
- Semi-structured interviews
- Case studies across ccTLD and gTLD environments
- Comparative policy analysis
- Stakeholder mapping
Stakeholders
Every organization’s perspective is essential to ensure the study reflects a complete and accurate understanding of stakeholder realities.The study engages stakeholders from across the global Internet ecosystem:
- Registrants (individuals, businesses)
- Internet consumers
- Requestors & RqA (security researchers, IP interests, law enforcement)
- Data holders & DHAs (registrars, registries)
- DNS ecosystem (ISPs, hosting providers)
- Security community
- Private sector
- Civil society
- Academia
- Policy bodies (ICANN, national regulators)
Deliverables
- Comprehensive narrative report
- Policy option matrix
- Implementation roadmap
- Stakeholder consultation summary
- Final recommendations
Execution Team
- ERI (project lead)
- Academic faculty (policy, legal, technical analysis)
- Partner organizations (DNS operators, civil society, security groups)
Timeline
The DRD-PO Study Team Members
