“Cybersquatting” is the purchase and use of a domain name in bad faith, usually done with the intention of reselling it back to the legal copyright holder to make a financial profit. Cybersquatting is a violation of trademark laws. It became illegal with the passage of a federal law in 1999 known as the Anti-Cybersquatting Consumer Protection Act (ACPA). The law became necessary because numerous large companies were forced to pay large sums to buy their domain names from third parties. These companies included such notables as Panasonic, Fry’s Electronics, Hertz, Hershey, and Avon.

The cybersquatter, or “Cyber Pirates” have no legal or legitimate interest in the business name but attempt to register a similar internet address name or likeness before the rightful owner can do so. It can also be a way for them to divert business or sell their own products to unsuspecting consumers. It is a form of public deception used for financial gain.

Cybersquatting cases can be filed through two methods. A business can file a complaint in federal court using the ACPA if another person registers or uses the company domain name or confusingly similar domain name in bad faith. The second method is to file a complaint using the Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP), a contract created by ICANN.

If a person deceives potential customers with something as simple as the business name and website, how can you trust them with any other claims?

The following excerpt was taken directly from the business website of the cybersquatter who used a confusingly similar domain name to my own company domain name for several years. His hope was to divert consumers to his company.  I never filed charges against him and eventually he stopped using the domain name.  Do you think cybersquatting is Business Identity Theft?

“Don’t you get tired of company misrepresentations?  It seems that no matter the industry, you’ll be told anything just so someone can sell a service or product… We can’t stress enough to verify what you’re told.   Seeing is believing.  If you discover a false claim, point it out.   If you believe you were hurt or could be hurt by these false claims, you should take legal action.” 

Ironic, isn’t it!

— Sally B. Tucker, Marketing Coordinator
First Columbia Bank & Trust Co.

•  The level of protection for credit and debit cards is often identical. However, credit cards are federally mandated to limit your liability in the case of fraud or identity theft. When a debit card is used for a transaction, the funds are removed from your account immediately. Your stolen funds will eventually be refunded, but it could take several days and affect your bank account balance or cause checks to bounce. You also need to promptly notify your bank of debit card fraud or you may lose your chance to recover the loss.
•  Making a purchase with a credit card gives you flexibility when it comes to paying for something that may arrive broken, substandard, or “not as advertised” especially with on-line shopping. You can dispute charges with your credit card company and request a refund or charge-back for the purchase. The Fair Credit Billing Act protects credit card holders but does not apply to all debit card issuers.
•  Many credit cards offer extended warranties or additional protection on purchases especially electronics or appliances. It may extend the manufacturer’s warranty or even provide insurance protection in the case of damage or theft.
•  You can improve your credit score and build credit history by making regular payments on a credit card account. A debit card is just like writing a check and does nothing to improve your personal credit score.
•  Many credit card companies pay rewards for purchases made with their credit cards. These can include frequent flyer miles, cash back or earned prize programs, discounts on services, rebates, or hotel credits.
•  Using your credit card for large purchases can help grow your future purchasing power if you are responsible with the payments. It may result in a better credit score and higher credit limit. This is valuable to have if you ever need financial help to purchase a large appliance, car down-payment, or cash advance.
•  Most car rental agencies still require a credit card. You may pay your bill with a debit card but they will not use the debit card as proof of your financial ability to pay.

Be sure to take your financial matters seriously. You will carry your credit history with you for a long time and it can determine future purchases and buying power. Strive to be a responsible consumer.

— John Sharp, CEO, Retired
Horizon Federal Credit Union

— Terri S. Mumper, Administrative Assistant
St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

— Ken Rogers, Church Treasurer
The Shavertown United Methodist Church

— Dave Houseknecht, CFO
Little League International Baseball & Softball