Shut down DN.com domain name escrow service [Updated] — Chinese regulations

“Requirements of the government” lead to sudden blackout at escrow firm.

[Update: DN.com is now back online. I’m also hearing rumors that DN.com might have been purchased by another sizable Chinese domain firm.]

The prior week domain name escrow service DN.com suddenly went dark. The firm sent out an explanation yesterday, which is copied in its entirety below.

The firm blames “requirements of the government” and “modifying the entity” as the reason for the sudden closure, which the firm states ought to last for a few more days.

What’s the government concerned regarding? Capital control issues?

Whatever is behind this, it certainly hurts the trust necessary to run an escrow service.

DN.com is owned by GoldenName, the same entity that runs the domain marketplace 4.cn.

In an interesting twist, when you Google DN.com, the top results is DND.com. This page previously had information regarding an escrow service in China, but now gives a 403 error when you visit it.

Here’s the email from DN.com:

Dear Clients,

The prior week, DN.com website was temporary closed for modifying the entity, and for the requirements of the government, the website will remain closed for a number of days more. Please keep informed that admin.dn.com is available to you with all functions. If you have other questions, please feel free to contact [email protected] and we shall serve you timely.

Due to the sudden change, we have received many inquiries and concerns, thank you for all your support and love to DN.com. Once entity modification is completed, DN.com will be back on.

Spring is the time for giving birth to the newborns, DN.com is also gaining momentum for a fresh start. Let’s wait patiently and expect DN.com’s fresh return. Thanks again!

Warmly Regards,

DN.com Team