Domain Web List? Possible Scam?

Web Listing Scam?

We have recently received calls from customers regarding letters they received about a “Domain Web Listing Services” and whether they need to pay for it.

We strongly advise caution as this may be a scam.

Legitimate domain and website-related information and support typically come directly from your web hosting provider.

Here’s why you should be suspicious:

• Reliable Communication: Your web hosting provider will usually communicate with you through:
  • Your account dashboard: You can typically log in to your account with your web hosting provider to view important information, such as:
    • Domain expiration dates: Clear notifications will be displayed if your domain is about to expire.
    • Payment issues: You will receive timely notifications if your account payment is overdue or about to expire.
    • Website issues: Any technical problems with your website, such as downtime or security breaches, will usually be communicated through your account dashboard or via email from your provider.
• Direct Contact: If you have concerns about your domain or website, the best course of action is to:
  • Contact your web hosting provider directly: Use the official contact information provided on their website or within your account dashboard.
  • Contact your web designer: If your website was built by a designer, they can also assist you with any questions or concerns.

By verifying information directly with your trusted providers, you can make sure the letter you receive is legit and avoid potential scams.

It’s happening locally

We have recently received reports from multiple customers that they have been contacted via phone calls, emails, and even letters regarding a “Domain Web Listing” and whether they need to pay for it. Not sure what to do, contact Lightning Bilt today.

Web Listing Scam UPDATE:

Apparently this is a scam. The service is called “Web Listing Services.” It’s a persistent scam involving a service called “Website Listing.” This scam has been operating since 2017 and involves:

• Receiving Invoices: You or your company may receive invoices requesting payment for “Website Listing Services.”
• Threat of Loss: These scammers may claim that your website’s online presence is at risk and that you could lose your “website listing” if you don’t pay.
• Misleading Claims: These “Website Listing Services” are completely useless and unrelated to your actual web hosting. They are not recognized or used by search engines like Google, Bing, or Yahoo.
• Recurring Costs: These companies often attempt to establish recurring yearly payments for a service that provides no real value.

This is a deceptive tactic designed to trick businesses into paying for unnecessary and ineffective services.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Ignore unsolicited invoices: Do not pay any invoices for “Website Listing Services” unless you have explicitly contracted for such services.
• Verify with your web hosting provider: Contact your web hosting provider directly to confirm the legitimacy of any charges or services related to your website.
• Review your account dashboard: Regularly review your account dashboard with your web hosting provider to monitor your domain status, payment history, and any official notifications.
• Be wary of unsolicited contact: Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or letters regarding your website.

Remember: Legitimate website management and online visibility are typically handled through your web hosting provider or your web designer.

By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect your business from this and other online scams.

Click here to go read The Federal Trade Commission’s guide about scams that can affect your business. 

Written by Ben Raigoza, at Lightning Bilt.