Invalid Email addresses in InterNIC whois database

["Gary E. Bickford" <garyb @ outlawnet . com>]

I recently whined to internic about the fact that their DNS records are
full of bad information, making it difficult to track down and respond
appropriately to spam (for instance, sending complaints to their hosting
providers)  Their response is of interest.  This is excerpted from the
entire thing, which is long and boring.  I don't think I've left out
significant context.

First, the relevant part of my mail:
>> Folks,
>>  InterNIC can be a useful and important tool in the self-management (as
>>opposed to regulation) of the Internet.
>>
>>  I often use your whois database as a tool in reporting Spam to the
>>various ISP's abuse email teams, e.g., abuse@aol.com.  I laboriously view
>>the email headers of spam, and look up any that aren't obviously bogus in
>>whois.  I also look up the parent domain, and the owner of the IP address
>>block, and send copies to the responsible parties for all of the domains
>>I can match.  With this method, I have been about 50% successful in
>>getting abusers' accounts removed.

>>  1.	However, I've noticed that a significant percentage of the DNS
>>records for valid domains and handles associated with known spammers are
>>bogus - false or impossible email addresses and false snailmail addresses
>>and phones.
>>
>>  This must mean that your authentication system for email addresses for
>>responsible parties' handles is not working as well as it could.  I
>>suggest that you require more authentication and/or other means of
>>assuring a valid, permanent email address for handles.

>Dear Customer,
>
>Thank you for contacting Network Solutions Inc., InterNIC Registration
>Services.
>
>It is the responsibility of the domain holder to update the domain
>information.  Failure to provide this information does not constitute
>grounds for shutting down a domain.  At this time, we will take no action
>against the domain.
>
>It is the responsibility of each contact to update their personal
>information.
>
>The InterNIC, like all Internet users, is impacted by individuals who
>propagate "spam" (bulk e-mailing) on the network. However, we are
>responsible for the administration of the name space and not for
>policing its content or use.
>
>Many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have policies regarding bulk
>e-mails.  You may wish to contact the ISP of the user who sent you
>the e-mail.
>
>Best Regards,
>
>Network Solutions, Inc. /CW