eBRAM Appointed by HKIRC as Designated Dispute Resolution Service Provider for “.hk” and “.香港” Domain NamesRevolutionising Domain Name Dispute Resolution Through Cutting-Edge Technology and Legal Expertise
(Hong Kong, 25 July 2025) Digitalisation development has become increasingly prevalent among businesses in recent years, making domain names a key asset for enterprises. As a result, businesses are placing greater emphasis on domain name protection and relevant dispute resolution. The eBRAM International Online Dispute Resolution Centre (“eBRAM”), an independent not-for-profit arbitration and mediation institution established with the support of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, is pleased to announce that it has been officially recognised by the Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation Limited (HKIRC) as one of its designated dispute resolution service providers for the “.hk” and “.香港” top-level domains, providing dispute resolution services to meet the growing demand for domain protection.
Business digitalisation has elevated the value of online branding, making enterprises more vulnerable to cyberattacks, counterfeiters, or competitors. This has intensified cybersecurity threats, as well as behaviours like cybersquatting and typosquatting, which can lead to fraud, consumer deception, or reputational damage. Furthermore, as more new domain names emerge, the risks of phishing attacks and brand impersonation also increase. In light of this, the demand for domain name protection among enterprises is continuously rising to maintain brand image, consumer trust, and cybersecurity.
HKIRC is the designated official body responsible for administering the country-code top-level domains in Hong Kong. Since its establishment in 2001, HKIRC has been committed to advancing the city’s internet infrastructure and fostering a healthy and secure domain name ecosystem. Over the years, HKIRC has proactively formulated domain name dispute resolution policies and established mechanisms to ensure that related disputes are handled in a fair, impartial, and professional manner, supporting Hong Kong’s position as a secure, innovative, and internationally competitive digital city.
The appointment was approved by HKIRC based on the five aspects, ten detailed requirements and three standards used by ICANN to authorise service providers. It signifies eBRAM's professional capabilities and reputation in this field, as well as its commitment to promoting the integration of technology and law and enhancing the efficiency of domain dispute resolution, further solidifying its position as a leading online dispute resolution platform in the region. Effective from 25 July 2025, eBRAM will officially begin handling domain name dispute cases, leveraging its advanced technology platform and professional legal support, to provide local and regional enterprises with efficient, reliable, and cost-effective solutions.
eBRAM’s Online Dispute Resolution Platform Revolutionises Domain Dispute Resolution Experience with Innovative Technology
Currently, resolving domain name disputes presents major challenges such as the complexity of cross-border enforcement, insufficient resources for SMEs, and inefficient procedures. Some traditional dispute resolution service providers have yet to digitise fully, with evidence submission and hearings still reliant on paper-based or offline processes. As a result, Hong Kong's Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP) procedures generally take longer to complete. When complex cases or cross-border disputes are involved, challenges such as language barriers or jurisdictional differences often emerge. These require international cooperation, which can result in cumbersome procedures and further delay the resolution process. Additionally, SMEs often lack the effective expertise and financial resources to effectively handle domain name disputes, which may compel them to abandon their claims or settle unfavourably, ultimately undermining their brand value.
To effectively address these challenges, eBRAM will strictly adhere to the HKIRC Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy and its Supplemental Rules, leveraging its advanced technology and legal expertise to provide efficient domain dispute resolution services for enterprises and individuals. eBRAM’s self-developed online dispute resolution (ODR) platform redefines the standards for efficient and accessible dispute resolution through groundbreaking innovation, outperforming traditional methods and industry competitors. The platform integrates six core technological advantages:
- Expedited Resolution: AI-powered case management system reduces resolution time from months to weeks
- Cost-Effective: Adopt full-process online dispute resolution services, which significantly reduces legal fees and administrative costs, making services affordable for businesses and individuals
- Expert Panel: Certified domain name dispute resolution specialists ensure fair and legally sound decisions
- Global Standards: As an APEC-listed ODR provider, eBRAM strictly follows the eBRAM APEC Rules to provide professional services. The awards issued can be directly applied for enforcement in more than 170 jurisdictions and Mainland courts.
- Remote Accessibility: A cloud-based platform allows users to submit file claims, upload evidence, and attend hearings anytime, anywhere, eliminating geographical barriers and streamlining cross-border dispute resolution
- Transparency & Security: AI-powered machine translation in 28 languages with legal terminology support, blockchain-secured technology, and seamless e-signatures ensure a smooth and reliable process
Dr Thomas So, JP, Chairman of eBRAM said, “We are honoured to be appointed by HKIRC as the designated dispute resolution service provider for ‘.hk’ and ‘.香港’ domain names. This is not only a recognition of eBRAM’s professionalism and technological innovation, but also marks an important step forward for Hong Kong in promoting digital dispute resolution. We will continue to leverage Hong Kong's strengths as an international legal and technology hub to provide enterprises and individuals with more efficient, professional, and trustworthy domain name protection services.”
Looking ahead, eBRAM will continue to strengthen its cooperation with HKIRC and other relevant stakeholders, actively participate in the optimisation of management of the “.hk” and “.香港” domain names, and promote the establishment of a more standardised and transparent domain name dispute resolution mechanism, thereby further consolidating Hong Kong's position as an international dispute resolution centre.
About eBRAM International Online Dispute Resolution Centre
eBRAM International Online Dispute Resolution Centre (“eBRAM”) is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee established in 2018, with the support of Asian Academy of International Law Ltd, Hong Kong Bar Association, and The Law Society of Hong Kong. eBRAM tasks itself to elevate Hong Kong’s arbitration and mediation services and build capacity to meet the rapidly expanding demand for online dispute resolution and deal-making services across the borders by utilising innovative technologies to enable the city to become a LawTech centre and hub for international business dispute avoidance and resolution and collaborate with global organisations and participating economies such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Belt-and-Road countries and beyond.
eBRAM has developed its ODR platform and DMP Portal leveraging the latest technologies, including artificial intelligence, blockchain and cloud. Cybersecurity and data privacy are our top priorities, and eBRAM makes every effort to ensure the security of information proceeded and stored on its platform.
For more information, please visit the organisation’s official website, LinkedIn, and Wechat Official Account (一邦eBRAM).
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Media Enquiries |
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eBRAM International Online Dispute Resolution Centre |
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Tinny Ip |
Tel: (852) 3792 0981 |
E-mail: tinny.ip@ebram.org |
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eBRAM International Online Dispute Resolution Centre (eBRAM)
Room 403, 4/F, West Wing, Justice Place, 11 Ice House Street, Central, Hong Kong
Website: https://www.ebram.org/
Email: info@eBRAM.org
Contact: +852 3792 0707