Nominet UK, the registry for .uk internet domain names, is
actively seeking feedback from its members and other stakeholders
with a view to preparing a draft Code of Practice for domain name
registration services. With numerous companies now providing UK
domain name registration services, it is hoped that the Code will
address consumer concerns about the terms on which they are
registering domain names and the service they can expect
receive.
The new Code is to be developed by the Internet Names Code of
Practice (INCOP), a separate body funded by Nominet, that is
seeking to establish higher standards for domain name registration
services.
INCOP acknowledges that domain name market has become complex
and that there is often a great deal of consumer confusion and
misunderstanding about costs and services provided.
Initially targeting domain name registration in the .uk
namespace, INCOP has prepared a consultation paper that sets out
the proposed content of the Code and ways in which accreditation
may take place. It also highlights issues where industry feedback
is required, such as how to accredit members, supervise procedures
for handling complaints and implement the Code.
"Following initial discussions with the internet industry,
consumer groups and governmental agencies, we have developed
proposals for the content of the Code of Practice," explained INCOP
Project Manager, Fay Howard. "We are now seeking feedback on
specific issues to ensure that the Code will be clear and workable,
and that it meets the key objective of improving standards in this
industry."
Those wishing to make comments and suggestions about the
preparation of the draft Code are invited to complete an on-line
questionnaire by 20th November 2001 at: www.incop.org.uk/
Any other comments can be sent to INCOP at info@incop.org.uk
