I have a .co.uk website and the .com domain was taken but didn't have a website linked to it. Whois said it was due to expire on 31 May 2020 (today) so I thought I'd wait for it.
A few weeks ago I got a unsolicited, random email saying the .com was available to buy and would I want it. I ignored the email figuring they'd want a lot for it.
Looking at whois today, the domain now says it's owned by SK Creations Inc. from 28 May 2020 until 28 May 2021. They apparently "specialize in website development, search engine optimization, and internet marketing." They're selling it for $5,000.
This feels a little unfair. I could've bought the domain for the likely $20 fee but instead a company has bought it with no intention of using it, but just trying to profit from it. Is this allowed? Can companies just buy domains and sit on them?
A few weeks ago I got a unsolicited, random email saying the .com was available to buy and would I want it. I ignored the email figuring they'd want a lot for it.
Looking at whois today, the domain now says it's owned by SK Creations Inc. from 28 May 2020 until 28 May 2021. They apparently "specialize in website development, search engine optimization, and internet marketing." They're selling it for $5,000.
This feels a little unfair. I could've bought the domain for the likely $20 fee but instead a company has bought it with no intention of using it, but just trying to profit from it. Is this allowed? Can companies just buy domains and sit on them?