Communications of the ACM
Trademark Issues Could Derail New gTLDs at ICANN Meeting
The introduction of new generic top-level domains (gTLDs) could be hindered by a variety of factors, including trademark protection, costs, and cybersecurity threats, according to participants at the ICANN Board meeting in Nairobi. "The issue is very simple and complicated at the same time—trademark holders have a responsibility to protect their brands, but again, it could end up being too expensive for them," says ICANN board member Mike Silber.
Many large corporations oppose new gTLDs, arguing that it would force them into defensive domain-name buying that would cost them billions of dollars. Supporters of new gTLDs argue that they will foster competition and innovation, drive business growth and employment, and eventually contribute to economic growth.
There also are questions on whether the new gTLDs will have a significant effect on the Internet root zone and whether new gTLDs will result in increased Domain Name System abuse, causing instability.
From Computerworld
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