All generic top-level domain name extensions and certain country-code ones support a security lock feature whose function is to hinder unapproved transfers of active domain names. Many domain name registry operators that oversee country-code TLDs that don’t support this option are in the process of adopting it for better safety and for the convenience of the domain name registrants. A domain can be transferred only if it is unlocked and only an individual who has been granted access to the account with the current domain name registrar can do that. New domains are registered with the lock feature activated on purpose, so as to impede any unauthorized transfer attempts. The lock option is among the safety measures for controlling the transfer of existing domains between registrar companies that have been introduced over the years.