The official registry for UK domain names released its 2021 figures for its Dispute Resolution Service (DRS) last month and revealed that disputes were the lowest they have ever been.
The DRS began in 2001, and in 2021, only had 548 complaints were filed regarding domain names. The total of domain names related to these complaints was 623 and represented just 0.0056 per cent of the register.
In 2021, 43 per cent of these disputes ended with a domain transfer. Since 2018 there has been a steady decrease in these transfers:
- 2018 – 49 per cent
- 2019 – 47 per cent
- 2020 – 46 per cent
What well-known businesses used the DRS in 2021?
The service revealed that .UK disputes have involved various well-known brands and educational companies, such as Bosch, Petplan UK, Nokia, the Admiral Insurance Group, Tesco, and Taylor Wimpey, and also parties such as The University of Westminster, the Little Caesars pizza chain, the glassmaker Bormiolo Luigi, and the Gainsborough Theatre Company.
Protecting your business’ Intellectual Property (IP) – its trading name or distinctive trading “get-up” – is vital.
Through Trade Mark Registration and documenting ownership of the copyright contained in images, written works and sound/moving image clips, businesses can ensure that others do not unfairly benefit from their creations. In some cases, without protection, others generate maximum profit from a business’ assets through licensing or, in some instances, “selling” these rights to others.
How can we help?
At Palmers Solicitors, we provide clear and frank advice on protecting, licensing or transferring IP rights and the action that should be taken if a dispute occurs relating to your brand. Contact us today for more information.