Abuse Policy
1. Introduction
OrangeHost LLC (“OrangeHost”, “we”, “our”, “us”) is committed to maintaining the security, stability, and integrity of the domain name system and the internet. As an ICANN-accredited registrar, we comply with applicable policies, including the Registrar Accreditation Agreement (RAA), and take all reports of abuse seriously.
This Abuse Policy outlines how abuse can be reported, how we handle such reports, and the actions we may take.
2. Definition of Abuse
For the purposes of this policy, “abuse” includes, but is not limited to, the following categories:
- Phishing – Attempting to obtain sensitive information by impersonation
- Malware Distribution – Hosting or distributing malicious software, including viruses, trojans, ransomware, or spyware
- Botnets – Operating or controlling compromised systems for malicious purposes
- Spam / Unsolicited Communications – Sending unsolicited bulk messages or email (UBE/UCE)
- DNS Abuse – Exploiting the Domain Name System for malicious activity
- Pharming – Redirecting users to fraudulent websites without their knowledge
- Copyright and Trademark Infringement – Unauthorized use of protected intellectual property
- Fraud / Scams – Deceptive practices intended to mislead or financially exploit users
3. DNS Abuse Definition
OrangeHost follows the definition of DNS Abuse consistent with ICANN and industry standards, including:
- Malware
- Phishing
- Botnets
- Pharming
- Spam where it serves as a delivery mechanism for the above
4. Reporting Abuse
If you believe a domain registered through OrangeHost is involved in abusive activity, please report it to:
Email: [email protected]
To help us investigate efficiently, please include:
- The domain name(s) involved
- A detailed description of the issue
- Supporting evidence (e.g., URLs, email headers, logs, screenshots)
- Your contact information
Incomplete reports may delay investigation.
5. Response Timeframes
OrangeHost aims to handle abuse reports promptly:
- Acknowledgement: Within 24 hours of receipt
- Initial Review: Within 24–72 hours
Complex cases may require additional time depending on the nature of the report.
6. Investigation Process
Upon receiving a report, we will:
- Review the complaint and supporting evidence
- Determine whether the reported activity violates applicable policies or laws
- Contact the domain registrant or hosting client where appropriate
- Request additional information if required
We may also coordinate with third parties, including law enforcement, registries, ICANN, and network providers where necessary.
7. Scope of Responsibility
As a domain registrar, OrangeHost primarily manages domain registrations. In cases where abuse involves website content, hosting infrastructure, or third-party services, we may coordinate with the relevant hosting provider, network operator, or service provider.
8. Actions We May Take
If abuse is confirmed, OrangeHost may take one or more of the following actions:
- Suspend or terminate hosting services
- Lock, suspend, or cancel the domain name
- Disable access to specific content or services
- Require corrective action from the customer
- Report the matter to relevant authorities
Actions are taken based on the severity and nature of the violation.
9. Legal and Regulatory Requests
OrangeHost may take action in response to valid legal requests, including court orders, law enforcement requests, and regulatory requirements.
10. False or Malicious Reports
OrangeHost reserves the right to disregard reports that are:
- Incomplete or lacking sufficient evidence
- Submitted in bad faith
- Intended to harass or harm legitimate users
11. Right to Respond
Where appropriate, registrants may be given the opportunity to respond to abuse allegations before action is taken, unless immediate action is required to prevent harm, security risks, or legal violations.
12. Compliance
OrangeHost complies with ICANN requirements, including obligations under the Registrar Accreditation Agreement (RAA), and applicable registry agreements. We maintain appropriate procedures for handling abuse complaints in line with industry standards.
13. Additional Terms
This Abuse Policy should be read in conjunction with our Terms of Service:
https://www.orangehost.com/terms-of-service
14. Contact Information
For abuse-related matters:
[email protected]
For legal or general inquiries:
[email protected]