Effective prevention of cybersquatting for new top level domains

Terms of between five and ten years can be selected for the DPML blocking service. This requires that the trademark is registered with the TMCH over this term. The Donuts registry reserves the right to cancel a DPML block for specific domains if the trademark concerned is no longer valid in the TMCH.

If another company has an identical trademark, it is able to have the existing DPML block removed and register a domain. However, this only works if the company can demonstrate it has a valid signed mark declaration (SMD) from the Trademark Clearing House.

Let’s take a look at an example: Delta Airlines blocks the term “delta”. However, Delta Faucets has also registered “delta” with the TMCH and is therefore able to register a Donuts gTLD including “delta” despite the DPML block. This case is defined as an “override” and is entirely in line with the purpose of the DPML, i.e. to block cybersquatters instead of legitimate brand owners.

Brand names with less than three letters:

Terms consisting of one or two characters are not permitted. Terms of three characters are only included if they match the precise wording of the brand.

Domains which are already registered:

If the domain has already been registered, it cannot be retrospectively blocked using DPML. Despite this, a brand owner can and should register their term with the DPML. Firstly, by doing so the owner blocks all other Donut’s gTLDs and, secondly, the block automatically applies to domains already registered by third parties as soon as these expire or are deleted.

Premium domains:

There are a limited number of more highly valued domains which are exempted from the DPML block. These domains generally involve generic terms.

• Flexibility: The DPML allows the blocking of a trademark in all gTLDs maintained by Donuts. However, where required, you can register the domain blocked by yourself at any time and use it for yourself.
• Comprehensive protection: An entry in the DPML not only allows you to protect the exact wording of your brand, but terms which contain the brand as well (at least four letters).
• Simplicity: A single entry in the Domains Protected Marks List blocks 238 top level domains.
• ⦁ Cost effective: The cost of one entry in the DPML is far cheaper than the defensive registration of each individual domain.

The DPML service can be booked via an accredited Trademark Clearinghouse agent such as EBRAND services. Please contact us if you’re interested in a consultation.