A new .xxx domain name registry is being introduced for adult
entertainment websites. If you want to block your trademark
from being available as a "trademark.xxx" domain name,
you can submit a reservation request during the "sunrise"
period, September 7 to October 28, 2011. If approved, no one
will be able to register "trademark.xxx." To be
eligible, you must own a US or foreign trademark registration
issued before September 1, 2011 for the exact trademark you wish to
reserve.
The .xxx registry owner, ICM, will begin accepting reservation
requests on September 7 through qualified registrars (listed at http://www.icmregistry.com/registrars.php).
The service fee for each reservation request ranges from $200 to
$500 depending on the registrar and, if accepted, is valid for 10
years.
During the same period, trademark registrants and existing domain
name owners in the adult entertainment industry are also eligible
to register corresponding .xxx domain names. Generally
speaking, an adult entertainment industry applicant seeking a
registration will have priority over a non-adult entertainment
industry applicant making a reservation request. The .xxx
registry offers Uniform Dispute Resolution Policy proceedings and
the like to help resolve .xxx domain name disputes.
OTHER IMPORTANT .XXX REGISTRY DATES
November 8-25, 2011 is the "landrush" period when
adult entertainment industry applicants are eligible to register
.xxx domain names without ownership of a valid trademark
registration or existing domain name.
After December 6, 2011, anyone can register a .xxx domain name.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.