Scripps Networks, the company that runs the Food Network television network, and the rights for .FOOD, has applied to ICANN to have Specification 13 exemptions incorporated into its Registry Agreement. In fact, it means that the company tries to close the domain for third-party registration, being the one that owns it because the word Food is the name of a TV company brand, – Domain Incite reports.
These actions seem to be very doubtful. ICANN has already forbidden the use of closed generic domains, which names are general dictionary words. As for dot-brands, they are able to get this status, only if the name of a brand isn't general dictionary word.
Scripps Networks attempts to draw an apocalyptic picture with disasters that would fall upon users when opening the .FOOD for public registration seem to be ridiculous. "Internet users can be circumvented by typosquatters and cybersquatters while Scripps operating .FOOD provides more trusted experiences," – Scripps Networks writes in the appeal to ICANN. But it is difficult to imagine that the user, duped by .FOOD zone, would eat anything obviously inedible. It is even more difficult to understand how the TV company, a lot of world countries haven't heard about, can apply for a world-brand rank. Whereas all inhabitants of our planet are definitely familiar with food.
The last word will be for ICANN's lawyers. However the question has been opened for discussion on the official site of corporation until October, 29. Anyone can express his opinion on destiny of the .FOOD. ICANN is likely to listen to a voice of Internet community.
