Understanding Cybersquatting: How Malicious Domains Threaten Brands and Individuals

Cybersquatting remains a persistent threat in the digital landscape, targeting businesses, individuals, and public figures alike. This deceptive practice involves registering domain names that closely resemble those of legitimate brands or individuals, often with malicious intent. Despite rising awareness and improved security measures, cybersquatting continues to flourish. According to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), nearly 6,200 domain disputes related to cybersquatting were filed with its Arbitration and Mediation Center in 2024, indicating the scale of the problem. 

Typically, cybersquatters aim to exploit the reputation of an existing brand by acquiring a domain that looks similar to the original. They might register a domain before a business secures it, or take advantage of minor spelling variations that are easily overlooked by users. This allows them to mislead consumers, drive traffic to fraudulent websites, or sell the domain back to the rightful owner at a premium. In more dangerous scenarios, these domains are used to host phishing scams, distribute malware, or promote counterfeit products.

One common technique employed by cybersquatters is typosquatting, where domains are registered with intentional misspellings or typographical errors. Unsuspecting users who mistype a URL may unknowingly land on malicious sites. 

A notable example occurred in 2006 when a domain resembling “Google.com” was used to trick visitors into installing fake antivirus software. Another tactic involves registeri

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