Definition

UDRP (uniform domain name dispute resolution policy) is the procedure introduced by ICANN in 1999 to quickly resolve cybersquatting disputes without going to court. It applies to all gTLD domains (.com, .org, .net) and to many ccTLDs.

Three cumulative criteria

To win a UDRP case, the complainant must show:

• The domain is identical or confusingly similar to a trademark in which they hold rights
• The current registrant has no right or legitimate interest in the domain
• The domain was registered and used in bad faith

How it works

• File the complaint with an approved provider (WIPO, NAF, ADNDRC, CAC)
• The registrant has 20 days to respond
• Decision usually within 60 days
• Possible outcome: transfer, cancellation or denial
• Cost: USD 1,500 to 5,000 depending on domains and panellists

For new gTLDs, an accelerated variant exists: URS (Uniform Rapid Suspension).