Hi All, As you know, the GNSO is studying key Whois issues (on request from GAC). Liz Gasster has been kind enough to send me the link to a website that summarizes all four studies -- http://gnso.icann.org/issues/whois/studies [1] -- and I am sure she would be happy to answer qusetions about them. Best, Kathy ----- some highlights ----- Whois Misuse Study [2]. This study examines the extent to which public Whois contact information for gTLD domain names is misused to address harmful communications such a phishing or identity theft. The Carnegie Mellon University Cylab [3] in Pittsburgh, PA, USA is performing this study and expects to have initial results in late 2012. To learn more about this study: click on the link above. Whois Registrant Identification Study [4]. This study uses Whois to classify entities that register gTLD domain names, including natural persons, legal persons, and Privacy/Proxy service providers. Using associated Internet content, it then classifies entities using those domains and potentially commercial activities. Contract negotiations are underway to perform this study, with results expected mid 2012. To learn more about this study: click on the link above. Whois Privacy and Proxy Services Abuse Study [5]. This study examines the extent to which gTLD domain names used to conduct illegal or harmful Internet activities are registered via Privacy or Proxy services to obscure the perpetrator's identity. Contract negotiations are underway to perform this study, with results expected late 2012. To learn more about this study: click on the link above. Whois Privacy and Proxy Relay/Reveal Survey [6]. This survey will determine the feasibility of conducting a future in-depth study into communication Relay and identity Reveal requests sent for gTLD domain names registered using Proxy and Privacy services. The Interisle Consulting Group in Boston, MA, USA is performing this survey and expects to have initial results late 2011. To learn more about this study: Contact info@whois-survey.net [7]. Links: ------ [1] http://gnso.icann.org/issues/whois/studies [2] http://www.icann.org/en/announcements/announcement-28sep09-en.htm [3] http://www.cylab.cmu.edu/ [4] http://gnso.icann.org/issues/whois/tor-whois-registrant-id-studies-20may11-e... [5] http://www.icann.org/en/announcements/announcement-2-18may10-en.htm [6] http://gnso.icann.org/issues/whois/whois-pp-relay-reveal-feasibility-survey-... [7] mailto:info@whois-survey.net