Drop-Catching
Drop-catching represents the process of registering expired domain names by means of automated systems to within a short period of time (even a fraction of a second) after being canceled by the registry. Simply put, the auto-registration of domains in the moment of their deletion. Drop-catching is performed by various companies known as "drop-catcher". [1]
Short overview
The process of drop-catching is different from registering expired or new domains, or simply buying new domain names. The main objective of drop-catching is to secure expired domain names once these are deleted to dropped from the domain registry. This process depends on a seconds so that the domainers must be effective and act as soon as possible in order to secure these domains.
Drop-catching is usually used either to regain their domain or with the purpose of swiping up high-quality and successful domains for future selling, and earning profit.
What is a dropped domain?
A dropped domain is a domain name which was registered and its registration period just elapsed. In this way, the art of snapping up an already dropped domain as fast as possible when it becomes available it is known as "drop-catching".
How does drop-catching work?
When identifying a possible "dropped" or deleted domain from the domain registry, instead of waiting for the domain to become once again available for the wide public, the domainers can place a back-order for it at a "dropcatcher" who against a specific fee will secure the domain.
Drop-catching using specialized companies
Due to the competitiveness between drop-catching companies and the differences between drop-catching services, not all back-orders are successful. In the case of multiple bidders for the same domain, a private auction will be created. The prices for back-order may vary, depending on the situation - whether it involve an auction or not. In the case of a single bidder, the price of a back-order is around $60-70$. But in the case of auctions, the prices can increase exponentially. [2]
Drop-catching using software programs
However,lately, there were also developed various forms of software programs that automatically register the dropped domains in the second these become available (which seems to be a very effective type of back-ordering service).
Drop-catching and ICANN
Drop-catching is also considered as an exploitation process that takes advantage of ICANN's Add Drop Grace Period. Having this in mind, drop-catching is considered by many a serious abuse for domains, similar with domain tasting, domain kiting or typo-squatting. [3]
How to secure a domain?
Securing a domain is usually done by means of drop-catching companies that offer various drop-catching services. Such companies are: Snapname.com, Pool.com, GoDaddy.com, etc.