Domínios

Domain name system and its connection to digital fraud

branddi · Published on September 25, 2024 · Updated on April 10, 2026

The Domain Name System (DNS) is one of the most crucial components of the Internet's infrastructure. in detail how DNS works and why it is essential for web browsing.

What is the Domain Name System (DNS)?

DNS is a hierarchical and decentralized system that allows the conversion of domain names into numeric IP addresses. Basically, it acts like an internet phonebook, making it easier to find websites and online services using names instead of numbers.

The Domain Name System operates through user search. When you type a website address, such as "www.example.com", in your browser, the computer needs to find the IP (Internet Protocol, or in Portuguese, Network Protocol) corresponding to that domain name to connect to the website.

How does DNS work?

DNS operation involves several steps, but can be simplified into a query and response process, which happens in fractions of a second:

Name Resolution

When you type a website address into your browser, it doesn't immediately know where it should go. The browser then asks the DNS a "question": "What is the IP address of www.example.com?"

Recursive DNS Server Query

This query is sent to a recursive DNS server, which is usually maintained by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or public DNS services such as Google DNS (8.8.8.8).

Cache Check

The recursive DNS server first checks whether it already has the response cached, that is, a response saved from recent queries. If it does, it returns the IP address immediately.

Hierarchical Query

If the server does not have the answer, it starts searching the DNS hierarchy:

• Root Servers: They are the first to be queried and indicate which TLD (Top-Level Domain) server should be queried next (e.g. for ".com", ".org").
• TLD Servers: These servers identify which authoritative server for the specific domain should be queried.
• Authoritative Server: This is the server that has the definitive answer about the IP address of the domain, for example, what the IP of "www.example.com" is.
• Browser Response: The authoritative server provides the IP address, which is then sent from returns along the path, until it reaches your browser, which, with the IP in hand, connects to the server of the desired website.

What is the relationship between domains and digital fraud?

Fake sites, also called fraudulent sites or phishing, are created to deceive users by imitating legitimate pages, with the aim of stealing personal, financial information or access credentials.

One of the main strategies of these scams is the use of domains that resemble those of real companies, but with small variations that go unnoticed at first glance.

For example, instead of “www.suaempresa.com”, a fake website may use variations such as “www.suaempresa-segura.com” or “www.sua-empresa.com”.

Fraudsters exploit these domains to carry out different types of scams, directly affecting customers and your brand's reputation.

Among the most common practices are:

• Fake Ads: They promise exclusive discounts or unmissable conditions from your brand, but direct you to fraudulent websites.
• Fake E-commerce Sites: They sell non-existent, counterfeit or attractively priced products, deceiving consumers and diverting their payments.

These actions exploit users' trust in domains that appear familiar, and end up causing financial and reputational for companies.

In light of this, protecting your brand's domain is essential to maintaining the integrity of your online presence.

Below, we present some essential measures to prevent your company and your customers from falling victim to these scams.

How to prevent and combat threats to my domain?

Maintaining continuous control over your domain is essential for The digital security of your brand. domains and advertisements that may be inappropriately exploiting your brand, through a combination of cutting-edge technology and the expertise of trained professionals.

Actions include:

• Reports on more than 5,000 platforms: Registrars, servers, online stores, payment gateways, browsers and advertising platforms.
• Instant analysis of more than 2,000 TLDs, Google Ads and SACs, quickly detecting potential threats.
• Up to 80% reduction in fraud-related complaints through a proactive approach.
• 99% success in takedowns, ensuring that fraudulent domains and advertisements are removed quickly.

Protecting your domain goes far beyond the initial registration. With a robust strategy and support from brand protection experts, your business can not only establish a solid online presence but also keep it secure.

Constant vigilance and proactive actions to defend your digital identity are key, and Branddi offers the tools and support you need to navigate the digital landscape with ease.

Contact our employees and find out how you are one step ahead of digital dangers.

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