India’s efforts to crack down on fake websites impersonating well-known brands have triggered a legal challenge from GoDaddy, the world’s largest domain registrar, which argues that the court-ordered measures could have consequences far beyond India’s borders.
The dispute stems from a December order by the Delhi High Court, which blocked more than 1,100 websites accused of impersonating brands such as Amazon and McDonald’s. Alongside the takedown, the court introduced wider measures aimed at curbing domain name abuse. These include ending free privacy protection for domain registrations by default, requiring registrars to disclose website owner details within 72 hours to anyone with a “legitimate interest,” and restricting domain names that closely resemble protected trademarks.
GoDaddy has challenged the directives before a larger bench of the Delhi High Court, arguing that the rules could expose legitimate website owners to privacy and security risks by making personal information more accessible. The company also says the measures may conflict with India’s data protection framework and international privacy standards such as the European Union’s GDPR, both of which favour privacy by default.
Another concern raised by the company is the global nature of domain names. Because internet domains are not confined to national borders, GoDaddy argues that complying with India’s rules could force domain registrars to alter their practices worldwide. The company has also questioned how registrars are expected to determine who qualifies as having a “legitimate interest” when requesting registrant information.
The Indian government has maintained that stronger verification and faster access to registration details are necessary to combat a surge in cyber fraud and fake websites. The appeals, which have also been joined by other domain registrars, are scheduled to be heard by the Delhi High Court on July 16.
Source: Reuters
