ICANN stories
In 2026, ICANN will reopen applications for new generic top-level domains, offering brands a rare chance to own and control their digital identity online.
Customers can now access advice on branded web domains as phishing and impersonation risks push more firms to tighten online controls.
Most internet users should see no change, but validators must update systems by October 2026 or risk DNS resolution failures.
Brands, cities and communities now have until 12 August 2026 to seek their own web suffixes, as ICANN widens the application round to 27 scripts.
With no further application window guaranteed, companies are being urged to move quickly if they want a branded web suffix to curb spoofing and phishing.
Identity Digital names CRO Matt Overman to CRN's 2026 Channel Chiefs list, spotlighting its growing domain partner ecosystem and strategy.
A global ICANN survey finds most marketing leaders see strong branding potential in gTLDs, though awareness and cost barriers remain ahead of 2026 application round.
Unstoppable Domains and Secret Network launch the .Secret Web3 domain, enhancing privacy and security for digital identity and blockchain communication.
NFT Workx and Unstoppable Domains launch .WRKX Web3 domain, enabling tokenised identities to combat counterfeiting.
Metropolis, a bustling SocialFi network with 400+ creators and brands, unveils user-owned digital identities via .metropolis Web3 domains in partnership with Unstoppable Domains.
Over 100,000 new .xxx pornographic websites have launched, aiming to create a virtual red-light district to prevent accidental access to adult content.
Web Drive becomes the first New Zealand company accredited by ICANN, promising significant savings and enhanced local support for resellers and customers.
Former hacker Jeff Moss is now ICANN's Chief Security Officer, leveraging his insider expertise to bolster global internet safety.
ICANN approves .xxx domain for porn sites, marking a new era for adult content online, with rollout expected by mid-year.
The creation of a new .xxx domain, dedicated exclusively to websites containing pornographic content is likely to be announced today.
Cheap, newly released web addresses are likely to give phishing gangs fresh cover as ICANN’s 2026 expansion rolls out over the coming months.
For a planet made up of countries, cultures and climates galore, apart from the oxygen we collectively breathe, we remain connected by one growing constant.
After more than two years of planning, Dot Kiwi has opened up its exclusive registration period for trademark holders, known as the Sunrise period, today.
Expat New Zealanders in Vancouver aim to register the .kiwi domain, offering an alternative to the .nz suffix and supporting Christchurch's rebuilding efforts.
Web Drive is the first New Zealand company to gain ICANN accreditation, a move set to save resellers 'tens of thousands' in fees annually.
