The C&AB complaints procedure The Complaints and Appeals Regulations are based on the principle that it is neither desirable nor practicable for SIDN to act as a censor, deciding beforehand which names are and are not suitable for registration. SIDN doesn't therefore consider whether a domain name is acceptable before it is registered. However, SIDN does have a complaints system, which provides a framework for retrospective intervention. The low-threshold system enables anyone who is unhappy about a domain name's registration to have it reviewed by an independent body. If that body decides that the registration is indeed inconsistent with public order or decency, registration can be cancelled. Use of a domain name SIDN has established that, in law, simply registering a domain name can never be inconsistent with public order or decency. Ultimately, the decisive factor is how the domain name is used. For example, a highly offensive slogan registered as a domain name by a cabaret artist might be acceptable, depending on how the name is used. The regulations that came into effect on 17 March 2010 therefore make an explicit link between a name and its use. Complaints about content The complaints and appeals system isn't meant for the many types of complaint about internet content (text and images on websites) that might arise in connection with .nl domain names. Content is explicitly not SIDN's responsibility. The system is only meant to deal with cases where the combination of a domain name and its use is considered to be inconsistent with public order or decency. In other words, the name itself has to contribute to the inconsistency. SIDN has a Notice and Take Down Procedure that can be followed if the content of a .nl website is clearly criminal or unlawful.
When can you make a complaint to the C&AB? Article 19.6 of SIDN's General Terms and Conditions for .nl Registrants states that, if anyone believes that, as used, a domain name is inconsistent with public order or decency, they can submit a reasoned complaint to the Complaints and Appeals Board. How do you make a complaint? A brief summary of the complaints procedure is given on the Complaints procedure page. For full details of the procedure, read the Complaints and Appeals Regulations or download the regulation.
The valid grounds for complaint are defined in SIDN's General Terms and Conditions for .nl Registrants. They are defined quite narrowly, so please think carefully before making a complaint. The rules mean that only certain types of complaint can be considered by the C&AB. If you have a complaint of any other type, the C&AB cannot help you. For information about other possible ways of resolving your grievance, see SIDN's website.
Fee Please note that a fee of €50 is charged for processing a complaint.