Afternic Removes Adult and Gambling Domains

zach · 11-18-2006, 12:04 AM

It's hard to believe, but here is the press release Afternic released earlier:

Quote:

ORLANDO, FL -- 11/10/2006 -

After extensive consideration, we have decided to no longer accept domain names that promote hate, sex, obscenity or self-destructive behavior, such as substance abuse, violence and gambling. We will also no longer accept domain names that infringe on trademarks. The sole rationale behind our decision is to make Afternic a more comfortable site for mainstream domain name shoppers, especially small business owners. We recognize that taking a leadership role on this issue may have a negative financial impact on our business in the near term. Nonetheless, we believe strongly that it's the right thing long-term decision for our industry and Afternic.

In the next few days, we will de-list these kinds of domain names currently posted on our site. Members who own such names will receive a letter from us informing them which names will no longer be listed. We hope that they, and others, will understand that we have no interest in censorship and that we fully support First Amendment rights to freedom of speech and expression. And, there is certainly no lack of other Internet sites where such names are welcomed.

The Internet, much like the early days of television, is still a new frontier. We believe it is up to the industry leaders-and we include Afternic here-to step up and determine what constitutes professional standards and practices. We take this action in the interest of socially responsible corporate behavior and hope that it leads to further healthy industry dialog and discussion on the topic.

We greatly appreciate your business and support of Afternic, and will continue to endeavor to earn your confidence and trust.

Is this a good move or a bad move?

Zach

scalamedia · 11-18-2006, 09:24 PM

It sounds like they are moving the business in a different direction. Part of being successful is about determining what you stand for. I have to respect that and in that aspect I say it is good.

penguinmama · 11-19-2006, 02:53 AM

That's great! I know a lot of family-friendly people who will be delighted to hear this news! I'm glad they have the guts to stand up and say "We will not support these things!"

Dave Zan · 11-19-2006, 02:24 PM

Funnily a lot of people in 2 domain forums I participate in heavily objected
to this, claiming censorship, hypocrisy and what have you.

Perception is everything for some people.

I'm not surprised what afternic has done. Others will follow suit depending
on whatever circumstances influence their decision-making.

penguinmama · 11-19-2006, 07:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave Zan

Funnily a lot of people in 2 domain forums I participate in heavily objected
to this, claiming censorship, hypocrisy and what have you.

Perception is everything for some people.

I'm not surprised what afternic has done. Others will follow suit depending
on whatever circumstances influence their decision-making.

I can't see how they can call it censorship, when there are plenty of OTHER places they can go to do their thing. I can't speak to hypocrisy, as I don't know the company's other business practices.

LyricB · 11-20-2006, 08:10 PM

I think it's a good move. After all, if I was in their position and I found out some people were using domain names which were hateful and offensive I would feel uncomfortable too.

hokeshel · 11-27-2006, 03:59 AM

Bad move financially, but, good move in a moral sense accoridng to the direcion they want to go. I see nothign wrong witth that.

Plumley · 11-28-2006, 10:14 PM

It makes me nervous, just as does anything that intends to tell other people what's good for them. How do they know what people are going to put on their sites? How did they determine that all gambling is self destructive? What's their definition of abusive? If something squicks you and you don't want to sell it, that's fine. But say that, rather than hiding behind a screen of righteousness. I suspect this move has more to do with offended sensibilities, and maybe even some CYA, than it does with setting "professional standards and practices."

scalamedia · 11-29-2006, 01:49 AM

I love the diversity in this forum and friendly open discussion of ideas and issues. So nice that we can all see the different sides of an issue. I hadn't considered the other point of view and can see why some would be nervous.

LyricB · 11-29-2006, 01:58 PM

Good point, scalamedia. I can see how it might make some people nervous, but at the same time I applaud the move. Check me out...I'm my own contradiction! Yay!