Internet regulator mulls cybersquatting block

Internet regulator mulls cybersquatting block

NEW YORK — The Internet’s key oversight agency is considering a centralized database of trademark holders, to cut down on questionable registrations of new Internet addresses.

Officials say the mechanism won’t preclude a new Web site from being created at, say, “www.apple.farm” by someone outside Apple Inc. But it would create hurdles. Backers of the idea say it is needed so trademark holders won’t have to spend thousands of dollars registering domain names defensively, to block someone from registering them and trying to profit — a practice known as “cybersquatting.”

The proposed trademark database comes as the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers is trying to widely expand the number of Internet domains, which include “.com,” for the first time since the 1980s.

New names could start appearing next year.

Tracfone tests cheap unlimited plan on Verizon

NEW YORK — Tracfone Wireless, the country’s largest provider of “prepaid” cell phones, is quietly testing a new service that appears to be a response to the fierce price competition in the prepaid market.

Since June, Tracfone has been selling unlimited calling and texting for $45 per month under the “Straight Talk” brand, and 1,000 minutes and 1,000 text messages per month for $30. The service uses Verizon Wireless’ network.

Tracfone’s chief executive, F.J. Pollak, said Straight Talk is a test for the company.

Associated Press