04 Nov 2026
If someone registers a domain using your trademark in bad faith, you do not always need to go to court. For .com and most global domains, you file under the UDRP. For .in domains, including .co.in, you file under the INDRP, run by NIXI. Both can order the domain transferred to you.
This guide explains which applies, what you must prove, typical costs and timelines, and how to prepare. It is general information, not legal advice. Work with a lawyer for your actual filing.
The Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) is ICANN's policy for disputes over gTLDs like .com, .net and .org. Complaints go to approved providers such as WIPO.
The .IN Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (INDRP) covers .in and its second-level domains. NIXI manages the process and appoints arbitrators from its panel.
| Point | UDRP | INDRP |
|---|---|---|
| Applies to | .com, .net, .org and most gTLDs | .in, .co.in, .org.in and other .in domains |
| Managed by | ICANN-approved providers (e.g. WIPO) | NIXI with appointed arbitrators |
| Decision by | One or three panelists | Arbitrator |
| Remedies | Transfer or cancellation | Transfer or cancellation |
| Typical timeline | About 2 months | Often around 2 months; check current NIXI rules |
| Fees | From about USD 1,500 at WIPO for 1 to 5 domains, single panelist | Set by NIXI; check current schedule |
| Court option | Either side can still go to court | Either side can still go to court |
Both policies use a similar three-part test. You generally need to show:
INDRP wording differs slightly, so read the current policy text with your lawyer.
| Situation | Often the best route |
|---|---|
| Live phishing or fraud site | Takedown first, dispute later if needed |
| Parked domain asking a small price | Buying may be faster and cheaper |
| Clear bad faith, high price demanded | UDRP or INDRP |
| Owner has a real business with the name | Get legal advice; dispute may fail |
For lookalike threats, see the typosquatting guide. To avoid disputes, plan defensive domain registration.
Client: Fashion retail brand, Chennai
Challenge: A third party registered the exact brand name in .in and redirected it to a competitor.
What we did: Evidence pack (trademark, use history, redirect proof), coordinated with the brand's lawyer, INDRP complaint filed, domain locked after award.
Results:
Client: SaaS company, Hyderabad
Challenge: A parked .com of the brand was listed for sale at a moderate price with no bad-faith use.
What we did: Compared UDRP cost and risk with purchase price; negotiated through escrow.
Results:
Use UDRP for .com and most global domains and INDRP for .in domains. Both work best with strong trademark evidence and clear bad faith. Sometimes buying or a takedown is faster. Always check current rules and fees, and involve your lawyer.
Flying Stars supports evidence gathering and process through our domain and trademark protection service.
