We would like to inform you about an important change for all .DE domain names.
Starting April 14, 2026, DENIC, the registry for .DE domains, will begin automated risk assessments during certain domain actions. This applies to new registrations, transfers, owner changes, and contact detail updates.
As part of this process, DENIC may require identity verification if the registrant data appears incorrect, incomplete, or suspicious.
What this means for you
Each .DE domain will receive one of the following risk classifications:
Low risk
No action is required. The domain continues to work normally.
Suspicious
The domain continues to work normally, but verification of the domain holder’s identity may be required within 30 days. If verification is not completed in time, DENIC grants an additional 7 days. After that, the domain enters a 90-day quarantine period. If verification is still not completed, the domain will be permanently deleted without a redemption period.
High risk
The domain is placed on hold until verification is completed. For new registrations, this means the domain will not become active until the verification has been successfully finished.
For existing domains that are only being updated, transferred, or changed to a new owner, DENIC normally uses the suspicious classification rather than high risk, so the domain usually remains active while verification is pending.
How the verification process works
If verification is required, we will contact you by email with the affected domain name and the deadline given by the registry.
At that point, you must make sure the registrant data is correct and be prepared to provide proof if requested.
For individuals, this may include:
a passport or identity card to confirm the name
a utility bill or bank statement to confirm the address
For companies, this may include:
a business register extract or formation documents to confirm the company
a utility bill or bank statement to confirm the address
Important: DENIC may also contact the domain holder directly by email. This can happen at different stages of the process, including before quarantine, when the domain is taken offline, and before deletion. In some cases, a physical letter may also be sent if email delivery fails.
What happens if verification is not completed
If the required verification is not completed in time:
DENIC may start the suspension process
the domain can enter quarantine and stop resolving
all .DE domains using the same holder data may also be affected
if the issue remains unresolved, the domain can be permanently deleted
Please note that changing registrar does not reset the verification deadline, and previous verification completed elsewhere does not automatically carry over.
What you should do now
Please make sure that all contact details for your .DE domains are accurate and up to date at all times.
This includes:
full legal name or company name
correct street address
valid email address
accurate owner details
Correct and verifiable data greatly reduces the chance of problems or service interruption.
It is also important that you respond quickly if we contact you about a verification request.
We expect that DENIC verification checks may become more common now that this process is automated.
If you have any questions or would like us to check the contact details on your .DE domain, please contact our support team.
