The internet has provided a great number of people with a public platform where they can share a huge range of information. It also offers these people a high level of anonymity, which can cause certain problems.
Fortunately, there is a way to locate information about the people behind websites, even if it is not explicitly stated within the site itself. This can be done using the WHOIS database.
This system serves to store information about registered users of a variety of online resources, such as the physical addresses attached to those behind a certain domain name or IP address. This can have a number of advantages in enabling internet security.
For example, WHOIS it can be especially useful in combating abusive behavior online. Because internet users do enjoy a certain degree of anonymity, it is sometimes much easier to act in a way which would not usually be tolerated. However, when such behavior is unacceptable or offensive, WHOIS might be used in order to contact the individuals behind such actions.
This process would usually be carried out by the appropriate law enforcement authority. Such authorities are also required to use the WHOIS systems for offenses which take place at a variety of other levels. Investigations regarding online terrorism organizations, for example, are also able to access the WHOIS databases in order to obtain essential administration information.
On the other hand, this system can also be extremely useful for a variety of businesses. Since the rise of e-commerce facilities, more and more companies have been keen to develop their online presence. However, by conducting business transactions over the internet, businesses can run find themselves or their clients are at risk of fraud. Moreover, the laws surrounding such online transactions can often differ from those conducted in a physical trading outlet. WHOIS can provide both organizations and their clients with a certain degree of accountability when it comes to carrying out business online.
Ultimately, this also works in the favor of the public, by protecting internet users from misuse of online arenas and safeguarding the laws which are in place for their benefit. This allows both individuals and businesses to access online facilities with confidence, by adding a degree of responsibility to the actions of those associated with both domain names and IP addresses.
About the author: I'm a professional software engineer, a system analyst and userbility expert. I do professional training on several IT related subjects also provide consultation. I am a founder of Qusaz intelligent solution company. I love to blog from time to time, whenever I find some interesting topic that might help others. Read more from this author