Using Similar Domain Names

[SlowMove]

Does anyone know if there are any legal or other issues involved in using a domain name that is similar to an existing domain name? For example, if widget.com is being used, is it okay to use widgets.com?

[Jenstar]

This thread should help you [webmasterworld.com]

This is primarily a trademark issue.

<edit>typo</edit>

[edited by: Jenstar at 1:01 am (utc) on June 22, 2003]

[SlowMove]

Thanks. That's not exactly what i had in mind. What if i just use the site to automatic redirect to a different site? In other words, i'd just be using an unclaimed domain name without putting any content on the site?

[Jenstar]

That is a little iffy. Are both sites ecommerce sites? And is it a brandable name? Even if you don't have anything on the domain and are using it as a redirect, if the owner of the plural version wants to claim trademark infringement, they would likely have a case. Did you check the trademark database to see if it is registered?

The key with cases lately seems to be if you register the "confusingly similar" domain name in bad faith - if you are registering it in hopes that people forget to type the S on the end and find your site instead, the other site would have a case.

Another thing to consider is if you think they would bother sending a C&D (cease and desist) to you over the domain name, and how deep their pockets are.

Yet another option is to register it, redirect it to your site until they complain, then hand the name over ;)

[SlowMove]

Thanks.