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The growing integration of the DNS with alternative naming systems raises new challenges for trademark protection. With cryptosquatting already a reality, recent work by ICANN, the SSAC and WIPO notably seeks to prevent infringements originating in alternative naming systems from being carried over into the traditional DNS.
More than 1,600 new gTLD applications have been submitted to ICANN. Drawing lessons from the 2012 round, we examine which publicly announced extensions deserve particular attention and whether GlobalBlock will provide brands with sufficient protection.
Belgium took a decisive step at the end of summer 2026. The authorities are no longer content with blocking access to sites that illegally stream sporting events. They now intend to identify the people who run them. To do so, they have turned to domain name registrars and asked them for i) the full identity of their customers, ii) their bank details and crypto wallets, and iii) a whole year of their connection data.
The new .PHONE domain extension will become available to everyone on 5 January 2027, with no specific eligibility requirements. A
Since 1 July 2026, a foreign company without an address in South Korea can have a .kr domain name registered
auDA is considering tighter eligibility rules for .COM.AU domain names, potentially affecting existing registrations. Corporate domain managers should review their portfolios now to identify domains that may rely on the current “close and substantial connection” test.
Google Registry will launch the Sunrise period for .EAT, .FLY and .HERE on 1 September 2026. Which trade mark owners should consider securing their domains before the priority registration period closes on 9 November?
In a judgment of 8 July 2026, the Paris Court of Appeal examined the liability of a hybrid platform in a trade mark infringement dispute. Hosting status, direct sales, internal search engines, trade mark reputation, evidence of damage and EU-wide measures: the Lacoste v Shein case illustrates the evolving challenges of Online Brand Protection.
A domain name generally costs only a few dollars/euros a year. Yet the smooth operation of some of the world’s
The COSHIELD case illustrates the specific scope of the UDRP: a dispute involving both a trademark and a domain name does not necessarily amount to cybersquatting. Bad faith at the time of acquisition must still be established.
In Fendi v Rolo Fashion, the UK High Court addressed a difficult question: how should damages be assessed when not every counterfeit sale translates into a lost sale of a genuine product? The judgment provides valuable insights into the assessment of damages and invites comparison with Article 13 of Directive 2004/48/EC.
The application window for the 2026 round of new Internet extensions closed on 12 August. ICANN has announced that it