Controversial domain registrar Epik has been acquired by Registered Agents Inc. (RAI) to improve its service offering to small businesses and entrepreneurs.
However, Epik is widely known for hosting far-right and neo-Nazi websites such as 8chan and the self-described alternative “free speech” social network, Parler.
A statement released by the company noted: “Epik.com is now forging a new path serving entrepreneurs and businesses seeking top-tier domain services and registered agents.”
“Problematic clients”
Epik says it made changes to its terms of service during the company's latest ICANN accreditation review to “remove its platform of violators,” resulting in the company removing “a handful of problematic customers.”
This will apparently help Epik “focus on rebuilding trust with its small business and enterprise customers,” although its tarnished reputation and history may still be an operational obstacle.
RAI, which acquired Epik, offers corporate compliance and registered agent services to “startups, small businesses, [and] companies nationwide. The acquisition will allow RAI to offer domain and website registration services to its clients.
Bryce Myrvang, in-house counsel at RAI, said in a statement: “The asset acquisition and subsequent transfer of Epik accreditation has been challenging. However, our ability to ensure continuity of services for hundreds of thousands of domain names for registrants has been a rewarding chapter in my legal career.
“We look forward to refocusing our focus on providing exceptional service to our largest business customers with the same level of support, products and services they are accustomed to receiving.”
Last year, Epik LLC purchased Epik from Epik Holdings, Inc after turmoil caused by debt, a successful hacking attack that leaked customer data, and the Masterbucks scandal.
In several TrustPilot reviews, Epik LLC frequently notes that they are a “separate entity with different ownership from the company and individuals” that the reviews apparently target. These reviews most likely refer to a completely different entity, Epik Holdings, Inc.
TechRadar Pro reached out to Epik LLC for comment, but they did not immediately respond. Subsequent updates will be posted here.
