Icann gives go ahead for .xxx domains for porn sites

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (Icann) has agreed to a specific domain suffix for pornography sites.

The agreement by Icann, the domain name regulator that approved '.xxx' as a top-level domain for adult sites, ends a decade of arguments.

Supporters of the domain, which is reserved solely for adult websites and can be used instead of other top-level domain such as .com, said it would make these sites easier to filter, especially for families using parental control software.

ICM the registry that will control the database of .xxx domains said the move will also ensure adult sites people visit can be trusted.

The company said it would monitor sites to ensure spam, malicious software and any other illegal activity is not spread or carried out through the sites.

However, the domain doesn't have full support, even within the adult-entertainment industry.

The proposal to create a specific domain for adult websites was initially given preliminary approval by Icann in 2005. This was redrawn in 2007 because of pressure from groups opposed to its creation. But an appeal by ICM was upheld by an Icann panel.

Icann said: "This decision represents a difficult, careful balance, weighing the extensive community advice for and against the registry agreement, as well as maintaining adherence to proper and documented process."

Icann agreed with ICM that the domain would give consumers "reassurance they are more protected from the risk of viruses, identity theft, credit-card fraud and inadvertent exposure to child abuse images."

But some adult-entertainment companies fear it will create a virtual ‘red light' district and even lead to censorship.

And, although it is not compulsory, they also object to having to pay to register more domains to hang on to a prominent web presence.

Religious groups meanwhile feel it will legitimise and encourage more pornographic content.