Ballot 104 – EV Domain Validation

Ballot overview

• Ballot 104, titled EV Domain Validation, proposed changes to the EV Guidelines to reconcile differences with the Baseline Requirements.
• The motion says the changes were intended to clarify the right to use a domain name and permit additional alternatives for verifying domain control or ownership.
• The ballot page labels the ballot as Passed.

Main substantive changes

• Updated the definition of Domain Authorization Document to require documentation showing the applicant has the exclusive right to use the specified domain name.
• Revised EV certificate warranties so the CA represents that it verified the subject has the exclusive right to use the domain names listed in the EV certificate.
• Changed EV domain verification language so the CA must confirm the applicant is the registered holder or has control over the FQDN, while prohibiting use of Baseline Requirements section 11.1.1(7) for EV domain verification.
• Added requirements for verifying exclusive right to use a domain name when the applicant is not the registered holder, including positive confirmation from the registered holder or reliance on a verified legal opinion, verified accountant letter, or certain representations and demonstrations.
• Added language for mixed character set domain names, including visual comparison against known high risk domains and additional authentication and verification when similarity is found.
• Added reuse provisions allowing certain prior EV verification materials to be relied on again under specified conditions.

Dates stated in the evidence

• The review period was to commence on 2013-06-25 and close on 2013-07-02.
• The voting period was to start immediately after the review period and close on 2013-07-09.
• The motion text begins with EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.

Compliance timing

• The ballot text states the changes were effective immediately.
• No separate phased applicability dates are stated in the evidence.