.brave Takedown Policy Follow
Brave users can take better control of their Web3 identity by using a .brave domain to unlock a full suite of decentralized tools. This includes the ability to host websites on IPFS, and simplify crypto payments by routing to a .brave domain rather than a wallet address.
However, in order to protect users, the Brave ecosystem, and the broader Web, we reserve the right to take action against .brave domains in some circumstances.
Brave may take down, suspend, or otherwise restrict access to a .brave domain under the following conditions:
- The domain infringes on any trademarks or other legally required actions.
- The domain is used to distribute malware, engage in phishing, or otherwise spread harmful content that poses a security or safety risk to Brave users or the broader Internet.
- The domain is used in a manner that impersonates Brave, misrepresents official Brave services, or otherwise causes material harm to the Brave brand or reputation.
- The domain is used to disrupt, interfere with, or exploit Brave’s products, services, or features, such as Brave premium services.
Brave is committed to the Web3 ethos of decentralization, privacy, and censorship resistance. Takedown actions are applied with caution and only used when necessary to protect users, comply with legal requirements, or prevent harm to Brave’s products and services. Where possible, we will first work with domain owners to achieve an amicable resolution before utilizing takedowns. Instead, we aim to use this as a last-resort option.
Frequently Asked Questions
In order to reduce the deployment of malware and phishing attacks, which affect many people on the Web today, we deemed it necessary in limited circumstances to perform takedowns. Ultimately, Web3 supports many models of governance from multi-stakeholder support with multisig contracts to anonymous DAOs with various alternative forms of governance. It’s our belief that this technical decision to govern the .brave top-level domain was the best starting point for us to launch. This allows us to balance the ethos and principles in Web3 that nurture an open Web, while at the same time complying as a legal entity operating in many global jurisdictions.
No, our intention for takedowns is to comply with legal requirements and prevent hosting of phishing and malware that harms users on the Web. Instead of censoring, we intend to look towards client side filtering to allow users to remain in control of the content they access and view as much as possible.
Sites can be reported directly to the Unstoppable Domains abuse team. Additionally, you can submit reports to tld-abuse@brave.com, which Brave will forward on to Unstoppable Domains if warranted.