Here is a hypothetical situation
at this point that I think can become very real with the inclusion of new TLD'sThe
scenario: Using the competitive TLD .web as an example and the generic dictionary
word Delta, which is used by more than one large corporation. There are
currently 104 records that relate to the word delta on www.marksonline and 3062 records
shown at www.uspto.gov
My first question is who should get it Delta
Airlines or Delta faucets or perhaps one of the many others who may lay claim to
it?
My real concern on this is for the individual or small business and to even
a greater extent suppose someone registers Delta.web with the idea of a particular
business in mind, and of course one which is not the same as any current trademark
holder. Now let's add to this scenario the fact that for the first 6 months of delta.web's
inclusion in the root server that there is no web page yet as the owner is preparing
all aspects of his planned new business
Should this registrant of delta.web have
his rights challenged ad perhaps lose his registration?
This is where I can see
the unfair implications of current TM policy and the proposed inclusion of its even
more sinister sunrise+20. In my opinion this would stifle any hope for people to
start a new business.
If this continues it seems possible that whole dictionary
will be off limits to the next generation. I know that sounds ridiculous, it is the
point I am trying to get across.
I look forward to comments on this and solutions.