ICANN tests law enforcement access to non-public WHOIS data

ICANN is testing SAML-based authentication so law enforcement officers can request non-public WHOIS data in cases of imminent threats to life, critical infrastructure, or child exploitation. The pilot runs with the FBI and Interpol; registrars get 24 hours to handle a request, or up to 72 for complex ones.

• Requests go through ICANN's RDRS after SAML login
• Registrars have 24 hours to respond, 72 for complex queries
• Pilot tested with the FBI and Interpol, other schemes possible
• Only nominated officers with a SAML token can file requests