VeriSign angers privacy groups with data sale

VeriSign, the oldest and largest seller of internet domain names said it has been selling customer data for more than a year. However, the company said it only releases corporate customer information from its modified 'whois' database. Privacy advocates have attacked the policy, saying it leaves the door open to stalkers and unscrupulous marketers.

VeriSign said the practice is consistent with its privacy policy and new customers have the option of requesting their information is not shared for marketing purposes when they sign up for a domain name.