Online gambling operators continue to target New Zealanders by re-registering expired or abandoned New Zealand domain names and redirecting visitors to overseas online gambling websites.
Of particular concern is the use of .org.nz domains, which are intended primarily for non-profit organisations, charities and community groups with a connection to New Zealand.
Two domains identified in this latest round are particularly troubling because of their association with organisations supporting people affected by health conditions:
lupus.org[.]nz– associated with the lupus community.addnz.org[.]nz– associated with ADHD support in New Zealand.
Other New Zealand domains observed in this recent round include:
avalanchecoaching.co[.]nzanelementoffun.co[.]nzletsgobeverages.co[.]nzorofestival.co[.]nzchargemaster.co[.]nzclinkdrink.co[.]nzbest-new-zealand-online-casinos.co[.]nz
The practice raises questions about domain registration safeguards, abandoned community websites, and the potential for people seeking legitimate health or community resources to be redirected to gambling services instead.
We have reached out to the Domain Name Commission (dnc.org.nz) in the hope that action can be taken to address this activity and prevent further abuse of New Zealand domain names.
The concern is not simply the redirection of old websites to gambling services. It is the apparent exploitation of domain names associated with charities and health support communities, potentially undermining trust in New Zealand’s domain name system.
We will continue to monitor this activity and any response from the relevant authorities.
