Hackers stole data from Epik this year, connecting the dots between extremist websites and their owners.
This year, the domain name industry received unwelcome attention when hackers stole data from Epik.
Epik is a domain name registrar known for catering to extremist websites and those that are “deplatformed” by other registrars and hosts. For example, in the wake of this year’s attempted insurrection on January 6, Parler moved its domain name to Epik.
The registrar’s management throws its weight behind the conspiracy theories and right-wing talking points some of its clients (such as Alex Jones) espouse. When GoDaddy terminated its Afternic relationship with Epik, it questioned why it received the notice two hours after the media called the 2020 election for Joe Biden. After PayPal cut off Epik last year, Epik published a letter referring to Hollywood pedophiles and Hunter Biden.
The hackers targeted Epik because it catered to many extremist websites and gave them anonymity. Despite calling itself “The Swiss Bank of Domains,” it turns out that Epik had very bad security practices. Epik CEO Rob Monster admitted there was some “shitty Russian code” on its platform.
After the hack, various organizations mined the data to connect the dots between lots of unsavory sites and their registrants.
The debate over limits of free speech and the role registrars should play with content continues. Epik has shown that its line is much further than most other registrars when it comes to what is acceptable, and this has attracted lots of attention. If anything, the hack shows that true anonymity on the web made be illusory. As long as one person or company knows who you are, others might find out.
Marvin says
I am thankful for Rob Monsters belief in freedom and the right of self expression.
Ps – There was no attempted insurrection. No one was even charged for insurrection.
PPS – Ray Epps
Squarely says
“freedom and the right of self expression.” has a cost.
Did anybody go to jail? Soon
….that why he is in silent mode (attorneys’ advice)
Rob Monster - Epik.com says
Even CNN’s multi-month research team is more balanced in their reporting than a long-time industry blogger. Go figure.
https://edition.cnn.com/2021/12/09/business/epik-hack-ceo-rob-monster-invs/index.html
Turns out Draconian censorship was not good for the world. As the year turns, even MSM recognizes the need for thoughtful compromise.
Win, lose or draw, Happy New Year to all!
Andrew Allemann says
Rob, I’ve found that anything you don’t agree with is biased, and anything you agree with is not.
Rob Monster - Epik.com says
The CNN article was included as an example of an attempt at journalism. It discusses pros and cons. Contrast that with Wikipedia and DNW.
That said, in light of your sponsors — visible and invisible — I can imagine it is not easy to do a balanced summary on Epik-related topics.
Like I said, win, lose or draw, Happy New Year to all — and by “all” I mean you as well. In spite of any agenda or bias, I freely acknowledge your aptitude!
joesaba2014 says
Domaining was also hacked and I am still waiting for your email answer if everything is solved.
Happy New Year!
David says
Hope this time my message is posted, what I mention is 100% true and facts
if I am wrong please correct me.
btw. I have no vested interest in Epik just a customer with over 2.5K domains
and a customer with GD too, had the best year in domains 3 7 figures domains,
1 3 word for 138K and lower names.
Just don’t like when things are done because of interest and not facts,
btw, over the years GD has had many domains stolen, Epik never, etc etc.
So why didn’t we hear more about the huge GD hack ” only 1 post” but
Epik you can’t get enough, I am all open ears
Wishing you a fantastic year 2022
Hope DNW doesn’t become another CNN and the rest, that the whole
year haven’t corrected or apologised 1 for thousands of made up stories.
Believe me I know better, my parents came from Europe, i left Venezuela
when free speech is lost is lost for all
joesaba2014 says
All the people of the world have the freedom of expression to speak, write etc. and in any country in the world this freedom is free for CNN and FOX.
You were not comfortable in Venezuela, you were right to leave, I am not going to ask you how much you had to pay, since millions of your compatriots have never been able to leave.
Happy New Year and Health.
David says
Hi Jose,
Wishing you a healthy and successful 2022.
When you are the big Gorilla in the room like CNN,
with coverage Worldwide in all cable platforms your voice has a weight, by now you know CNN decides what to comment and how and what to ignore, that
attitude has costed hugely there rating.
In regards to Venezuela in that aspect is not Cuba, yes conditions are quite difficult but anybody can
go to the airport, leave by car or crossing the boarder. Over the years 4 million people have left.
Appreciate my comment being published.