[bmelton]

whois.sc is the registrar that initially pointed out the 'domain name front running' practice to me, and advertises that they find it deplorable, and definitely don't do it.

I generally use them when I'm trying to iron down what domain I actually want, and don't hit a registrar until I've got credit card in hand, and am ready to buy.

According to the article they posted, ISPs also sell reports of popular mis-typed domains to would-be squatters as well. So in addition to avoiding most registrars, you should also avoid the popular urge of 'just type the url into your address bar' method of seeing if a domain is taken.