Enhanced ICANN Guide Simplifies the DNS Abuse Complaint Process

ICANN has released an updated, step-by-step guide designed to help users more easily submit complaints related to DNS Abuse. Published on 20 November 2025, the resource explains how to report issues such as malware, phishing, botnets, and other malicious behaviors connected to domain names. The guide maintains the same scope and objectives as before, but now delivers the instructions in a more accessible and user-friendly format to assist individuals, registrars, and security professionals. This improvement addresses a recurring challenge: many users were uncertain about how to correctly file complaints or identify which issues fall under ICANN’s remit. The new guide lays out each step in a logical order, ensuring that reports reach the proper channels and contain the necessary details.

Supporting the Community with Practical Guidance

The updated guide reinforces ICANN’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the DNS ecosystem by ensuring that abuse complaints are handled efficiently. It walks readers through the process of checking whether an issue qualifies as DNS Abuse, verifying if the responsible party has already taken action, and preparing the information needed for a valid submission.

By offering clearer instructions, ICANN aims to reduce incomplete or misrouted reports, which previously slowed response times and complicated investigations. The organization emphasizes that accurate reporting helps contracted parties respond more quickly and supports broader global efforts to protect users from online threats.

Helping Users Identify What ICANN Can and Cannot Address

A central function of the document is to clarify the boundaries of ICANN’s authority. The guide highlights that ICANN deals with DNS Abuse within the scope of its contracts and policies, but it does not intervene in content-related disputes or issues outside the DNS layer. This distinction is essential for ensuring complaints are escalated to the correct entities.

By setting these expectations, ICANN helps users avoid frustration and strengthen collaboration with registrars and registries. The guide ensures that individuals understand what evidence is required, where to direct their submissions, and how to proceed when a case falls outside ICANN’s purview.