Domain name laws/limitations?

Question

Is there any law that sets standards for domain names? What CAN or CANNOT be done? I have seen on the web people doing all sorts of stuff with domains, but I want to make sure that I dont violate any laws. For example, N.Y or NYC is used as city code for newyork and I want to start a website that promotes NewYork city..mm..say gonyc.com or flyjfk.com etc (might already exist but used as example only) Will I oneday get in trouble with the city of NY asking me to surrender the domain?Help me to understand how it works?Thanks Folks

Answer 1

While the above is almost right, you have to consider the cybersquatting issue, and, in particular, the Anticybersquatting Consumer Protection Act, which is part of the Lanham Act, covering trademarks, that took effect on November 29, 1999.

So, the real question is what use you'd make of the site you register, and whether you're cybersquatting or otherwise improperly attempting to capitalize on someone else's trademark.

Cybersquatting actions are not brought through ICAAN, but rather in the U.S. District Court in the jurisdiction in which the registrar of the domain is found - in order to establish jurisdiction, they're in rem actions.

Answer 2

Cities typically (if they are in their right minds) use a dot gov domain name.

You would not be breaking any laws so long as you did not infringe on any Copyrighted/Trademarked "names" etc etc.

Many cities have private individuals who have dot com names. Many cities are actually greatful for these domain owners. Some cities (check local area) are restricted by Fed, State, and local laws with regard to promoting certian businesses/services. So the dot com owner gets to promote some things that the city might want to, but are not allowed to.

Answer 3

Most of the rules are set by ICANN -- which is an international committee that sets the rules for domain name registration.

Other than that, and applicable trademark laws, there are very few restrictions on what can be registered.

If you want to check on a specific name, consult a trademark lawyer or internet-savvy attorney, or your local domain registrar.