I was wondering is there was any legal issues with snatching up names of soon to be famous people?

Lets say I was following the space program and get Mikemelvill.com (he was the pilot of spaceship one) Or followed high school football or collage footabll and get the best players names before they where famous and thought to get there own site?

I imagine tigerwoods.com could be sold for a nice sum or Shaq.com
Is there a legal issue with this as a personal name is usully not trademarked.

I already have a few names and was concerned about future leagal action or $$$.

Thanks
Alaska....

I dont think so. I think the only legal issues are with copyrights or trademarks. Since a persons name is not unique and in most cases not trademarked or copyrighted - I dont think that would be an issue.

But, I am not a lawyer so do not take that as legal advice. (I only took one year of law school :) )

Originally posted by Alaska56
Lets say I was following the space program and get Mikemelvill.com (he was the pilot of spaceship one)

I am sure this name will be snatched after this post

are you following me dmaven? lol!

Stalker

:)

ahahahahahaha you crack me up :)

i know some famous people got their names back especially if its kinda unique and has trade mark issues

but if it was first name or last name i doubt any famous can get it back.

if so billgates would take his billgates.com :P

Everything I have read on the issues relate that the critical factor is the level of "fame" of the subject matter at the time of registration along with the conduct of the registrant once they have the name (i.e. acting in bad faith to profit).

I'd tread lightly in this area without consulting a lawyer which specializes in the area.