Public Comment

Public Comment is a vital part of our multistakeholder model. It provides a mechanism for stakeholders to have their opinions and recommendations formally and publicly documented. It is an opportunity for the ICANN community to effect change and improve policies and operations.

Name: Waqar Ahmad
Date: 9 Apr 2024
Original Public Comment: String Similarity Review Guidelines
Other Comments

Educational campaigns to raise awareness among users about the risks associated with visually similar domain names. Providing clear guidelines and examples of effective naming practices empowers users to make informed choices.

Firstly, it's crucial to outline the potential risks associated with string similarities in DNS, including phishing attacks, brand impersonation, and user confusion. Attackers can exploit similarities in domain names to deceive users and compromise security.

Educating users about homoglyphs is essential. Homoglyphs are characters from different scripts or fonts that look alike and can be used deceptively in domain names. Providing examples of common homoglyphs and how they create misleading domain names helps users understand this concept better.

Introducing users to tools like domain name generators, spellcheckers, and domain availability checkers aids in domain name validation. These tools help users check the uniqueness and validity of domain names before registration, ensuring they choose secure and distinct names.

Establishing feedback mechanisms allows users to seek clarification or share experiences, enhancing the educational experience. By incorporating these elements into the campaign, users gain a deeper understanding of the risks associated with visually similar domain names. Empowering users with knowledge and tools to make informed and secure choices when registering domains is crucial for maintaining a safe online environment.

Incorporating educational content about visually similar domain names into educational curricula and offering learning courses through popular platforms can significantly contribute to raising awareness from the grassroots level. 

Summary of Attachment

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Summary of Submission

It emphasizes the importance of educational campaigns to raise awareness about the risks associated with visually similar domain names. It outlines potential risks such as phishing attacks, brand impersonation, and user confusion, highlighting how attackers exploit string similarities in DNS to deceive users and compromise security. Educating users about homoglyphs, providing examples, and introducing validation tools like domain name generators and spellcheckers are key components of the campaign. Establishing feedback mechanisms for users enhances the educational experience, empowering them to make informed and secure choices when registering domains.