Name.com joins VeriSign Identity Protection Network

(02/04/2009)

In the wake of some recent high-profile hacker attempts to steal the passwords of millions of customers, businesses, including domain name service providers, are exploring options for added protection to ensure that Web site administrators and domain name registrants can manage their Web-based property with confidence.

Name.com LLC, is leading the way by offering its clients the chance to use strong, two-factor authentication from VeriSign, Inc. By joining the VeriSign® Identity Protection (VIP) Network, Name.com can provide its clients with safeguards that go beyond the standard log-in methods.

Two-factor authentication works by combining something users know – their username and password – with something they have – a VIP security credential that generates a one-time password (OTP) for every sign-on. During an online session, this OTP is entered into the Name.com account log-in page, along with the user’s account name and password. Name.com then verifies the OTP and matches it to the account holder, thus enabling its clients to achieve strong – or two-factor – authentication.

"Domain names are digital brands, and we bear huge responsibility to ensure that their clients have access to the most advanced security safeguards available," said Bill Mushkin, CEO and founder at Name.com. "Offering VIP credentials is an important part of meeting that obligation, and it's one that VeriSign has helped us meet quickly and easily. The globally trusted VeriSign brand will reassure our customers, while membership in the VIP Network offers them convenient access to strong authentication on many Web sites the world over."

The unique VIP Network allows consumers to use a single security device to authenticate themselves across any VIP-enabled Web site. As a result, Name.com-issued credentials can be used not only on the Name.com login portal but also on any site that is part of the VIP Network. For domain name service providers and other businesses, joining the VIP Network helps distribute the costs of stronger authentication.

"Name.com has clearly taken the initiative to protect its clients against security breaches that have come from using simple user names and passwords," said Kerry Loftus, vice president of Consumer Authentication Solutions at VeriSign. "By joining the VIP Network, Name.com is taking a strategic step to ensure its clients have a safe, secure and convenient environment in which to do business online."

Related topics:  Authentication and identity management 

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