WDH-088 Websites, Domains & Internet Infrastructure
Can I prove somebody operated a website?¶
Website operation is broader than registration or technical access. It may involve control, direction, administration, publishing, income and business decisions.
Evidence to consider¶
- domain and platform control;
- administrator and publishing activity;
- payment for infrastructure;
- receipt of proceeds;
- customer communications;
- instructions to staff or developers;
- website files, credentials and linked devices.
Keep the conclusion precise¶
Accounts, IP addresses, devices and provider records may identify a technical or contractual relationship without identifying the individual responsible. Test shared access, delegated administration, automation, compromise and changes over time.
Key takeaway
Proving operation requires a corroborated picture of control, activity, direction and benefit during the relevant period.