ICANN opens up Pandora's Box of new TLDs

Roger Marquis marquis at roble.com
Fri Jun 27 20:32:05 UTC 2008


Phil Regnauld wrote:
> As business models go, it's a fine example of how to build demand
> without really servicing the community.

Of all the ways new tlds could have been implemented this has to be the
most poorly thought out. Security-aware programmers will now be unable to
apply even cursory tests for domain name validity. Phishers and spammers
will have a field day with the inevitable namespace collisions. It is,
however, unfortunately consistent with ICANN's inability to address other
security issues such as fast flush DNS, domain tasting (botnets), and
requiring valid domain contacts.

The core problem seems to be financial, as this is likely the most revenue
generating plan (both over and under the table) ICANN bean-counters could
have dreamed up.  It certainly was not the foreseen outcome when non-profit
status was mandated.

I have to conclude that ICANN has failed, simply failed, and should be
returned to the US government.  Perhaps the DHL would at least solicit for
RFCs from the security community.

Roger Marquis




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