
A domain developer from Delhi recently purchased the domain JioHotstar.com, anticipating a potential rebranding in India’s streaming market following reports of Disney Plus Hotstar’s declining user base and a possible merger with a local competitor. The developer, acting on these assumptions, acquired the domain in early 2023 before any trademark for “JioHotstar” was established.
However, Reliance Industries took note of this acquisition and reached out through Ambujesh Yadav, AVP Commercials, demanding control over the domain. The developer initially requested a payment of £93,345, reportedly equivalent to an EMBA tuition fee, which Reliance declined. Now, with legal action looming, the developer is seeking legal assistance.
Ankur Raheja, a well-known UDRP (Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy) lawyer, posted on Twitter about the matter, explaining that Reliance is likely to succeed by filing a UDRP complaint. Raheja emphasized that this route would bypass lengthy civil litigation, as the developer registered the domain in “bad faith” without any legitimate interest, anticipating a potential brand association with Jio. Labeling it as “cybersquatting,” Raheja pointed out that Jio is a well-established name, making this a clear case of unauthorized domain registration.
Certainly, Reliance is likely to prevail in this dispute, as they can file a #UDRP Complaint without the need for prolonged civil proceedings. The #Domain Registrant registered the #DomainName in expectation of a merger, indicating that the registration was made in Bad Faith and…
— Ankur Raheja (@ankurraheja) October 24, 2024
What is Cybersquatting?
Cybersquatting, also known as domain squatting, occurs when individuals register domain names similar to well-known brands or anticipated mergers, aiming to profit from the brand’s popularity. This is often done with the intent to sell the domain back to the rightful company at a premium. Cybersquatting infringes on trademark rights and can harm a brand’s reputation and trust with consumers.
Why avoid Cybersquatting?
Cybersquatting is illegal in many jurisdictions and can result in legal action under policies like UDRP. Companies can claim these domains without compensation to the registrant if it’s proven that the registration was made in bad faith. Avoiding cybersquatting not only helps prevent legal repercussions but also supports ethical online practices by respecting intellectual property rights and maintaining a fair digital environment.
Raheja cited a similar precedent, the PVR-Inox.com merger case, where WIPO ruled against domain owners who registered domains based on anticipated brand mergers. This precedent strengthens Reliance’s position, aligning it with recognized cases of domain squatting in anticipation of future brand partnerships.
In an unexpected development on October 25, 2024, the domain JioHotstar.com has been acquired by two children from Dubai, making them the new official owners of the site. This surprising twist adds further intrigue to the ongoing domain dispute involving Reliance. With this new ownership, all eyes are now on Reliance to see how the company will respond to this latest turn of events in the case.