Concerns About New gTLDs as Cybersquatting Hits Record Levels

As the web gets larger and larger, it’s no surprise that intellectual property disputes are increasing. In 2008, a record 2,329 cybersquatting disputes were registered with the World Intellectual Property Organization. Celebrities, pharmaceutical companies, technology firms, and retail outlets were just a few groups who filed cases.

Don’t expect the issue of cybersquatting to go away. With the introduction of new gTLDs next year under ICANN’s new system, defenders of intellectual property rights are afraid violations will drastically increase.

General Francis Gurry, Directory of the WIPO, said:

The creation of an unknowable and potentially vast number of new gTLDs raises significant issues for rights holders, as well as Internet users generally.

ICANN has a created a scenario where virtually an unlimited amount of domain extensions can be created. With each new extension there will be more opportunities for cybersquatting. If it continues with its plans, ICANN could find itself opening a can of worms it won’t be able to close.

Source: Canada.com