As everybody anticipates another new domain extension (.tel domains) launch late this year, people who know the business of domaining also know it is a perfect time to own a domain that is not necessarily "theirs." I'm talking about domain squatting or the process of acquiring domains without any intentions of using it purposely but rather keep it until the real owners approach them to buy it at their dictated price. Domain squatting is a real big issue in the world of internet domains.

Right now I can already tell you several names that might very well be prime targets for .tel domain squatting. Practically all companies whose name ends with -tel can be victims if they don't wise up and register their trademarks in time. Additionally, all telecommunications companies may also be victims if they don't grab .tel domains during the prescribed time. Think about Verizon.tel or Bellsouth.tel or Cingular.tel... Aren't these domains stuff domain squatters would die for?

The thing that makes this issue a bigger one that it should is that .tel domains aren't getting much attention from the people that should know about it. If the evil guys get to them first, it should be another interesting legal issue. I bet some domains squatters are already drooling for .tel domains by now.