[ADDENDUM, 2009.01.09: There is another scam out there which attempts to get you to pay more for your domain, and possibly transfer it to a different domain registrar. It usually comes in the form of a postal mail from a very official sounding name, like National Domain Protectors or US Domain Registry Keepers. I’ve uploaded an example a client sent me, below and to left.]

CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE

[END ADDENDUM, 2009.01.09]
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Several CDLLC clients have called in the past two weeks and inquired about the following email scare/scam. What follows is basically a fear-based attempt to lead a business owner to believe s/he is missing out on the “land grab” phase.

If there is enough interest, I will elaborate on the value and/or potential detriment to your business from having multiple domain names, and I can write a brief summary of how copyright, trademark, establishment of first use, etc, are interpreted by law on the internet. Post a comment if you are interested.

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From: Alex.Tao
Sent: Saturday, November 29, 2008 1:29 AM
To: Crockett Dunn
Subject: crockettdunn for domain name

Dear crockettdunn:
We are Shanghai Chooke Network Information Technology Co., Ltd, which is the domain name register center in China.I have something need to confirm with you.
We have received an application formally,one company named “Yunda (China) Investment Co.,Ltd” applies for the domain names(www.crockettdunn.cn www.crockettdunn.com.cn etc.) ,and the Internet keyword(crockettdunn) on the internet November 28, 2008. We need to know the opinion of your company because the domain names and keyword may relate to the copyright of brand name on internet.
we would like to get the affirmation of your company,please contact us by telephone or email as soon as possible.

Kind Regards,
Alex.Tao
Tel: +86-21-62416070
Fax: +86-21-62597835
Email:alex.tao@chooke.cn
Shanghai Chooke Network Information Technology Co., Ltd
website:www.chooke.cn