Domain registry moves to ban cryptocurrency names

Sorry, crypto companies, you can’t register a .bank domain name.

fTLD Registry Services, which operates the new top-level domain (TLD) extensions .bank and .insurance, is looking to ban cryptocurrency services from registering a domain name.

The registry, which is run by “a coalition of banks, insurance companies and financial services trade associations from around the world,” announced its proposed amendments to its registrant eligibility policies late last month. fTLD concurrently opened a public comment period on the changes; it will run until August 24.

While anyone can register most top-level domain extensions, some registries do apply restrictions to who qualifies for its names. The .bank TLD, which costs around $1,000 per year, is among those with the most restrictive policies. To qualify for a .bank domain name, the registrant must be a government-regulated retail bank, savings association, national bank, or bank holding or parent company. There are exceptions listed in the policy, however — one such entity that can also currently apply for a .bank domain are financial service providers. Read more...