New from SIDN - LogoMotive
Successful pilot projects with SIDN to detect fraudulent domains based on logo detection.
In a new pilot project by SIDN, which is behind all .NL domain names, 200 websites were detected that were illegally using the Rijksoverheid or Thuiswinkel logo. Malicious domains that take advantage of anyone they can abuse are unfortunately a reality on the Internet.
As a hoster, we often have to deal with this as well and do our best to take these websites off the net as soon as possible. SIDN's pilot project has given the system a name: LogoMotive is the system that uses logo recognition to determine if a domain name is legitimate. For example, many malware websites and data collection websites impersonate a central government, RDW or a popular bank to abuse them. Of course, the trusted branding of the organizations is also used to mislead visitors. If the organizations recognize the improper use of these logos, they can quickly determine that it is not legitimate.
Added to the Brand Monitoring service
LogoMotive functionality will be added to the trademark monitoring service that SIDN offers to larger organizations for their use. It is possible to implement this for all companies, but the budget for this is so high that it is out of the question for many.
Use of images on a website
Every website and company has its own style and logo on their website, and the logo and color scheme are often part of a company's identity. KPN is synonymous with the color green, Rabobank with the color orange, and the Dutch government with the color blue. Of course, the use of colors is a bit more difficult to determine, as there are only a limited number of colors to choose from. However, based on the logo and the corresponding image, it is quick and easy to determine whether or not it is a reputable provider. The new system checks this and determines whether it is a legitimate source or not. If it is not, this is immediately forwarded to the brand and the next step to protect the brand can be taken immediately.
One of the 200 websites and domain names taken offline as part of the pilot had a link redirected to a legitimate central government domain, but suspicious MX records were used. At a later date, the data collected could then be used to launch a highly targeted attack on a government agency logging into an internal environment through this link. This, of course, could have catastrophic consequences if it went unnoticed. With the new system, this is immediately eliminated by the illegal use of the logo.
Thuiswinkel.org is also positive about LogoMotive, as there have already been a large number of abuse cases for Thuiswinkel. Which is of course extremely important for a brand for secure webshops. The abuse of a Thuiswinkel logo means of course a direct damage to the image. Because that is the service.
Do not use images or logos of websites or organizations on your website without explicit permission. If in doubt, always contact the organization or website yourself. You will often get a No. Copyright and trademark protection is always a sensitive issue that you should also take seriously.
Would you like to learn more about LogoMotive? Then also read the SIDN article with all the information.
