Registering .eu in addition to .com and .co.uk is likely to strengthen brand awareness as another ten countries join the European Union – and Withers say it will act as a defence against cybersquatters who try to take advantage of leading brands by getting there first.
“Unlike trademarks, the validity of a domain name cannot be challenged if it is not used actively (provided the renewal fees are paid), which means that it is possible to register a .eu domain name for defensive purposes only.”
Domain names will not be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. Restrictions governed by Public Policy Rules will be published soon by the European Commission.
Those wishing to register need to do so through a registrar accredited by Eurid, the official body appointed to manage the process by the Commission. Eurid will publish a list of accredited registrars on its website (www.eurid.org) in June, say Withers. Registrations are scheduled to be accepted from November.
Law firm advises firms to register .eu domain names
LAW firm Withers, who specialise in advising the art and antiques trade, say new .eu domains coming in this year should be registered quickly to boost and defend business.
