Domain lock (also called Registrar Lock or Transfer Lock) is a security feature that prevents unauthorized transfers of your domain to another registrar. When enabled, your domain cannot be transferred without explicitly unlocking it first.
Why Use Domain Lock?
- Prevents unauthorized or accidental domain transfers
- Protects against social engineering attacks
- Required by ICANN as a default security measure
- Gives you full control over when your domain can be moved
Checking Lock Status
- Log in to the Domain India Client Portal
- Go to Domains and click on your domain
- Look for Domain Lock or Transfer Lock status
- Status will show: Locked or Unlocked
Enabling Domain Lock
- Go to your domain management page
- Find the Domain Lock setting
- Toggle it to Locked / Enabled
- Click Save
Tip: Always keep domain lock enabled unless you are actively transferring your domain.
Disabling Domain Lock (For Transfer)
To transfer your domain to another registrar:
- Go to your domain management page
- Toggle Domain Lock to Unlocked
- Click Save
- Obtain the Auth/EPP Code (see related article)
- Initiate the transfer at the new registrar
- After the transfer completes, re-enable the lock at the new registrar
WHOIS Status Codes
When domain lock is enabled, your domain WHOIS shows:
clientTransferProhibited— Transfer is locked by the registrar
Other common status codes:
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
ok | Normal status, no restrictions |
clientTransferProhibited | Transfer locked |
clientUpdateProhibited | Contact updates locked |
clientDeleteProhibited | Deletion locked |
serverTransferProhibited | Locked by registry (dispute, legal hold) |
Troubleshooting
Cannot Unlock Domain
- Ensure your domain is not expired
- Check if there are pending disputes or legal holds
- Domains within 60 days of registration or transfer cannot be transferred (ICANN rule)
- Contact support if the lock option is not visible
Domain Transferred Without Authorization
- Contact support immediately
- ICANN provides a dispute resolution process for unauthorized transfers
- Transfers can be reversed within 5 days in some cases
Related Articles
Need help? Contact our support team at [email protected] or open a ticket at https://domainindia.com/support.