Domain Squatting and Digital Brand Hijacking
In the digital-first market of 2026, your .co.th domain and your social media handles are as valuable as your physical warehouse. Domain Squatting remains a challenge for foreign firms entering or expanding in Thailand.
The '.co.th' Advantage
Unlike .com, registering a .co.th domain requires a Thai company certificate or a Thai trademark certificate. This is a built-in protection.
- The Conflict: If someone has registered your exact brand name as a
.co.thusing a loosely related trademark, you can challenge it via the Thai Network Information Center (THNIC) dispute resolution policy.
Social Media Hijacking
If a "fan page" or an "unofficial distributor" has taken your brand name on TikTok or Line OA, you can use the Thai Trademark Act to send a formal Cease and Desist. Most platforms will honor these requests if you provide a notarized copy of your Thai trademark certificate.
The Prevention List
- Buy the Variations: Don't just own
brand.co.th. Buybrandshop.co.thandbrandthailand.co.th. - Trademark First: In Thailand, it is often "First to File," not "First to Use." If you are even thinking about a sub-brand for 2027, file the trademark application this week.
Related Service: Company Registration & Legal — Digital asset protection and trademark filing services.
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