TLD Squatting
Detection of domains using incorrect Top-Level Domains (TLDs) to confuse and mislead users.
What is TLD Squatting?
TLD squatting occurs when attackers register domain names that are identical to legitimate brands but use different Top-Level Domains (TLDs). This technique exploits user confusion about domain extensions, making malicious sites appear legitimate at first glance.
With hundreds of TLDs now available (.com, .net, .org, .biz, .info, country codes, and new gTLDs), attackers have numerous opportunities to create deceptive domains that closely mirror legitimate brand websites.
How We Detect It
Our TLD squatting detection systematically monitors for your brand names across all available TLDs by:
- •Extracting the domain name portion (excluding the TLD) from new registrations
- •Comparing against your monitored keywords for exact matches
- •Flagging domains where only the TLD differs from your legitimate domain
- •Prioritizing high-risk TLDs commonly used in phishing attacks
Real-World Examples
Common TLD Confusion
High RiskUses .net instead of .com, exploiting the fact that many users try different TLDs when a site doesn't load.
Country Code Exploitation
High RiskUses .co (Colombia) instead of .com, a particularly deceptive substitution due to visual similarity.
New gTLD Abuse
Medium RiskUses .shop TLD to appear like a legitimate shopping site, potentially confusing customers.
Organization TLD Misuse
High RiskSwitches from .org to .com, potentially confusing donors and volunteers about the official website.
High-Risk TLD Categories
Certain TLDs are more commonly abused for phishing and squatting attacks:
High Abuse TLDs
TLDs with low registration costs and minimal verification requirements.
Confusing Country Codes
Country codes that look similar to common TLDs or have dual meanings.
Business-Oriented gTLDs
New generic TLDs that appear professional and legitimate.
Why TLD Squatting is Effective
- •User confusion: Many users don't understand TLD significance
- •Trial and error: Users often try different TLDs when sites don't load
- •Search results: Fake domains can appear in search results
- •Email links: Alternative TLDs work effectively in phishing emails
Detection Strategy
Our comprehensive approach to TLD squatting detection includes:
- •Monitoring across 1000+ available TLDs and country codes
- •Prioritizing high-risk TLDs with history of abuse
- •Real-time alerts when exact brand matches are registered
- •Historical analysis to identify patterns and emerging threats
Protection Recommendations
When TLD squatting is detected against your brand, consider these actions:
- •Defensive registration: Register your brand on critical TLDs (.net, .org, country codes)
- •Content analysis: Check if squatting domains host malicious content
- •Legal action: File UDRP complaints for clear trademark violations
- •User education: Inform customers about your official domain and TLD
Emerging Threats
The TLD landscape continues to evolve with new challenges:
- •New gTLD releases: Hundreds of new TLDs create new squatting opportunities
- •IDN TLDs: Internationalized domain names add complexity
- •Industry-specific TLDs: .bank, .finance, .insurance create trust illusions
Learn More
Explore our other detection methods to understand how we provide comprehensive brand protection: