legal updates
Tuesday, 04 Oct 2011
Block others registering your trade mark in the new .xxx domain
A new .xxx top-level domain is in the process of being launched for the adult industry. This is intended to create a distinct and safer environment for adult content. However, there has been some concern from brand owners in relation to the potential misuse of their brands in this new domain. If a cyber-squatter registers a non-adult brand with the .xxx suffix as a domain name (such as amazon.xxx or tesco.xxx), this could both divert legitimate traffic from the brand and produce inappropriate associations between the adult industry and that brand.
As part of the launch process for this new domain, there is a small period during which holders of trade marks can register a block on their registered mark, which will prevent others from registering their mark in the .xxx domain. Those wanting to block their brands from being registered under the .xxx must have their blocking request in by 28 October 2011.
If you would like assistance in making a blocking application or registering a domain name, please contact Alison Marshall in our Technology Team.