(Publ. 6 APR 2017) The new global top level domains (gTLDs) (i.e. .CAMERA or .CARS) are putting greater demands on trademark holders. The new domains are making the Internet a bigger place and are also expanding the possibilities of registering new domain names under the new TLDs. Unfortunately, this is also creating new opportunities for domain name pirates and cybersquatting (e.g. registration of domain names similar to others trademark for one’s own profit).

WIPO has released statistics showing an increase in the number of registered domain names using other people’s trademarks. However, for you as a trademark holders, there are good and simple tools to make use of in order to protect your trademark, including the Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP) with WIPO as well as Trademark Clearinghouse (TMCH) and domain name watching.

Last year, trademark holders filed 3,036 UDRP complaints, of which Sweden accounted for 93 cases. Among the leading companies filing complaints are Electrolux, Hugo Boss, Lego and Michelin. Among the most common new gTLDs that were being disputed were .XYZ, .TOP and .CLUB.

If you have any questions regarding domain names or gTLD:s, please contact our domain name lawyer Carl Wendt.