Domain name decision

[enrico1999]

Actually, you can get in trouble anytime you use someone's trademarked words in your domain name. Google_anything.com (for example) would no doubt result in potential litigation. While there is still debate within the UDRP and cybersquatting cases about gripe sites, or other non-commercial uses, the pendulum is swinging slowly in favor of trademark owners. More importantly, these huge companies can drag you into court and make your life miserable. Ford did that a few years back with anyone using mustang and other trademarks. Even those that offered to turn over their domains to Ford were not dismissed from the lawsuits. Ford wanted to 'send a message.' You can find out more at these links about cybersquatting lawsuits and domain name disputes.

My advice is to stay clear of other people's trademarks. I get calls and emails every day from average Joes who are staring down the barrel of some big company’s hired gun lawyer.