Overview
By the end of July 2026, DENIC (the .DE registry) introduces automated risk assessment for:
- New registrations
- Transfers
- Owner changes
- Contact updates
The registry evaluates the domain holder’s name and address. If flagged, identity verification is required.
1. What’s Changing
Previously, checks were manual. Now, DENIC uses an automated algorithm.
Evaluated data:
- Holder name
- Holder address
- Individual vs organization
If data looks suspicious:
- DENIC → sends poll message
- Openprovider → emails reseller
2. Risk Levels
Low Risk
- Domain works normally, and no action is needed.
Suspicious
- Domain works normally, verification required within 30 days
If not completed:
- +7 day grace period
- Domain deleted permanently after a 90 day quarantine period
Important:
- Existing domains being updated, transferred, or assigned to a new owner can only receive a maximum classification of “Suspicious”
- Domain remains active during verification
High Risk
- Domain immediately on hold
- New domains stay in pending create and not activated righ away.
Typical reason: highly suspicious or false holder data.
3. Verification Timeline
For Suspicious Cases
| Stage | Timeline | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Verification requested | Day 0 | Reseller receives email from Openprovider |
| Initial deadline | Within 30 days | Verification must be completed |
| Grace period | Additional 7 days | Final chance to verify |
| Quarantine | Up to 90 days | Domain stops resolving |
| Final deletion | After quarantine | Domain is permanently deleted |
Notes:
- DNS stays stored during quarantine
- No Redemption Grace Period
- Transfers do NOT reset deadlines
- Previous verification does NOT carry over
4. Responsibilities
| Openprovider | Reseller |
|---|---|
| Sends reseller email with: • Domain name • Holder details • Deadline• Instructions | Must: • Contact customer • Confirm holder details • Collect supporting proof • Send confirmation to Openprovider |
5. Required Documents
| Individuals | Organizations |
|---|---|
Must verify:
| Must verify: Accepted: Best practice: • Use business registration documents to verify the organization
|
6. DENIC Direct Communications
DENIC contacts the holder directly:
| Stage | DENIC Communication |
|---|---|
| Before Quarantine | Dedelegation Warning→ Risk of domain going offline |
| During Quarantine | Dedelegation Information→ Domain is offline |
| Before Deletion | Notice of Termination→ Domain will be deleted |
Important:
- Sent by DENIC (not Openprovider)
- May be sent by post if email fails
- Customers may contact you
7. If Verification Fails
- Openprovider informs DENIC
- DENIC grants 7 day final period
- 90-day quarantine
- Domain stops resolving
- Permanent deletion
Impact:
- If multiple domains using same contact → all affected
8. Upcoming Automation (KYC/KYB)
Expected: End of June 2026
New Flow
Step 1 – Reseller Notification
- Informational only
- No immediate action required
Step 2 – Customer Verification
- Email from:
noreply@registrar.eu - White-label (includes reseller name)
- Secure upload link
→ Customer uploads documents directly
What Changes for Resellers
You no longer need to:
- Collect documents
- Store documents
- Send proof manually
Step 3 – Pre-Verified Holders
- Openprovider auto-submits data
- Higher chance of Low Risk
Step 4 – New Dashboard
RCP → Contact Verifications
You can:
- View open verification requests
- Track status
- Monitor deadlines
9. Recommended Actions
- Inform customers about increased verification
- Keep contact details accurate
- Monitor Openprovider emails
- Train support teams on DENIC notices
- Act quickly on requests
Best practice:
Verified and accurate holder information should result in a low risk classification and avoid any service disruption.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Will the domain stop working immediately?
Only high risk cases are placed on hold immediately. Suspicious cases continue working during the 30-day verification period.
Can a transfer avoid the verification deadline?
No. Transferring the domain to another registrar does not reset the deadline.
Does previous verification with another registrar count?
No. DENIC requires verification through the current registrar process.
What happens during quarantine?
The domain no longer resolves, but DNS records remain stored.
Is there a redemption period after deletion?
No. Once deleted after quarantine, the domain cannot be recovered through a redemption grace period.
Can several domains be affected at once?
Yes. If multiple .DE domains use the same contact details, all of them may be affected together.
