With the upcoming launch of new top level domains with the .xxx extension, web site owners are going on the offensive to make sure that their names or trademarks are not snapped up by others who would want the .xxx extension linked to that name. Even though the top level domains have not been launched yet, we are at what they call the “sunrise phase”, which is the stage wherein those who own trademarks are given the opportunity to reserve trademark.xxx.
It is not surprising then, to see college.xxx domains being reserved at this early point. In particular, educational institutions such as the University of Missouri-Columbia have already reserved the domains missouri.xxx and missouritigers.xxx. In addition, we already get to see domains such as washu.xxx and mizzou.xxx.
I can already imagine mischievous enterprising college students grabbing a college.xxx domain and wreaking havoc in all sorts of ways. Just think how Zuckerberg started Facebook. In this day and age, nothing seems impossible!
Opinions about the move of educational institutions to reserve their college.xxx domain vary. There are people who think that it is a smart move and that while there is no guarantee that their college name will be picked up for an .xxx domain, it is better to be safe than sorry. Academic administrators say that since it is only $200 bucks to reserve the domain anyway, it is worth the cost. Of course, there are people who think that this move is simply overreacting to what might not happen.
What do you think about educational institutions reserving their college.xxx domain? Is it a smart thing, or is it a waste of funds?
Here’s a more interesting thought: what about getting your name.xxx domain? Would the arguments apply as well?
Via PhysOrg
Photo via Gossip Hat