GigaLaw report finds surge in domain disputes driven by large UDRP cases
A report by GigaLaw shows a sharp rise in disputed domain names under the UDRP, linked to a small number of high-volume complaints and ongoing cybersquatting activity.
Domain name disputes increased in early 2026, according to new data from GigaLaw.
The report tracks cases under the Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy. It finds that decisions rose by around 15% compared to the same period last year. The number of disputed domain names grew faster. It increased by 41%.
The rise is linked to two large cases. L’Oréal challenged 705 domains. Empower challenged 537. Together, these cases represent a significant share of total disputes.
These cases are unusual. UDRP rules normally require that domains are controlled by the same registrant. This has become harder to prove. Privacy services and data protection rules limit access to ownership data.
Panels allowed consolidation in both cases. In the Empower dispute, patterns in domain registration and links to phishing activity were cited as justification.
Outcomes differed. Empower requested transfer of domains. L’Oréal requested cancellation. Cancellation can allow domains to be registered again. This creates additional risk.
The report points to broader factors. Domain registrations continue to grow. Cybersquatting remains persistent. The data also suggests continued reliance on the UDRP system for dispute resolution.
