IP Master Class Webinar: Cybersquatting and the New Top-level Domains: Are You Prepared?

In 2010, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) will begin introducing a potentially unlimited number of new generic top-level domains (gTLDs) to the Internet. Private organizations and individuals will be able to propose and apply for the top-level domain of their choice, such as .nyc, .coke, or .cars. Trademark owners are justifiably concerned that launching the new gTLDs will result in a major increase in cybersquatting, the harmful practice of registering domain names confusingly similar to well-known trademarks. Is your company or client prepared to protect its intellectual property rights upon the arrival of the new top-level domains? Furthermore, should you or your client consider applying for a new gTLD related to a particular business or brand?

This webinar will begin with a short overview of the legal protections against cybersquatting, including ICANN’s Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP) and the Lanham Act’s Anti-Cybersquatting Consumer Protection Act (ACPA). We will then address ICANN’s plans regarding the new gTLDs and will outline the process for applying for a new gTLD, as well as the process for lodging objections to proposed gTLDs.