1. Overview
As an ICANN-accredited registrar, Worldwide Domain Registry Limited ("WDR") implements the consensus dispute resolution policies that apply to generic top-level domains. By registering a domain sponsored by WDR you agree, through the Registration Agreement, to be bound by the policies on this page. Country-code extensions apply their own registry policies, noted where relevant.
2. Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP)
The UDRP applies to all gTLD registrations. A trademark holder may start a mandatory administrative proceeding by filing a complaint with an ICANN-approved provider (for example WIPO, FORUM, or the Czech Arbitration Court). To succeed, the complainant must prove all three elements:
- the domain is identical or confusingly similar to a trademark or service mark in which the complainant has rights;
- the registrant has no rights or legitimate interests in the domain; and
- the domain has been registered and is being used in bad faith.
Remedies are limited to cancellation of the domain or its transfer to the complainant. WDR implements panel decisions after the ten-business-day period allowed for a registrant to commence court proceedings.
3. Uniform Rapid Suspension (URS)
The URS provides a faster, lower-cost remedy for clear-cut cases of infringement in new gTLDs. The burden of proof is higher (clear and convincing evidence) and the sole remedy is suspension of the domain for the remainder of its term — the domain is not transferred. WDR locks domains within 24 hours of notice from a URS provider and implements determinations as directed.
4. Transfer Dispute Resolution Policy (TDRP)
Disputes between registrars about inter-registrar transfers are handled under the TDRP. If you believe a transfer of your domain was carried out in error or without authorisation, contact us at [email protected]; WDR will raise a TDRP case with the relevant registry where justified.
5. .UK Domains — Nominet DRS
Registrations under .uk are governed by Nominet's terms rather than the UDRP. Complaints concerning .uk domains are handled under Nominet's Dispute Resolution Service (DRS), which includes free mediation before expert determination. Other ccTLDs likewise follow their registry's dispute policy; details are available on request.
6. Court Proceedings
Nothing in these policies prevents either party from submitting a dispute to a court of competent jurisdiction before, during or after an administrative proceeding. Where WDR is ordered by a competent court to act in respect of a domain, we comply with the order as directed.
7. What Happens During a Dispute
- On notification of a UDRP or URS filing, the domain is locked against transfer and registrant changes for the duration of the proceeding.
- The domain continues to resolve during a UDRP case unless suspended under the URS or by court order.
- Registrant contact data may be disclosed to the dispute provider as required by the proceeding (see our Privacy Policy).
- Renewal obligations continue during a dispute; allowing a disputed domain to expire does not end the proceeding.
8. Abuse Reports & Contact
Reports of DNS abuse (phishing, malware, botnets, pharming, spam) may be made to [email protected]. We acknowledge abuse reports within 24 hours and act in line with our published abuse procedures and ICANN requirements. General dispute questions: [email protected].