If you register a domain with the same name, but on a different regional domain, is it considered legal?

For instance, if a company has a website Zebra.ua and you acquire Zebra.com,

what potential consequences might arise as a result of this action?

Registering a domain name with the same name but on a different regional domain is not necessarily illegal in itself. However, there can be legal consequences depending on the specific circumstances and applicable laws.

If another company already owns the trademark rights to "Zebra" and believes that your registration of Zebra.com infringes upon their rights, they might take legal action against you. Trademark laws vary by country, so it's essential to consult an intellectual property lawyer who specializes in domain name disputes to understand the potential legal consequences in specific jurisdictions.

It's worth noting that domain name disputes are often resolved through arbitration or litigation, and the outcome depends on various factors, including trademark ownership, the similarity of the names, and the intended use of the domain name.

1. Trademark Infringement: If another company holds a registered trademark for the name "Zebra" and operates in the same industry or has overlapping goods/services, they may argue that your registration of Zebra.com infringes upon their trademark rights. This can lead to legal action, potential damages, or the requirement to transfer the domain name to the trademark holder.

2. Consumer Confusion: If both Zebra.ua and Zebra.com offer similar products or services, customers may become confused about which company is the legitimate one, leading to reputational damage and loss of business for either party.

3. Cybersquatting Claims: If the company owning Zebra.ua believes you registered Zebra.com in bad faith to profit from their brand, they could file a complaint under the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP) or similar procedures. This could result in the transfer of the domain to the rightful owner or other penalties.

4. Legal Costs: Engaging in domain name disputes or legal battles can be expensive. You may need to hire lawyers, pay court fees, and potentially face financial damages if found liable for trademark infringement or cybersquatting.

If the website is related to free downloads or online movies, there will be no consequences. However, if it is a company's website, it is advisable to seek legal advice and communicate with the owner of a similar domain.

In Ukraine, there exists a particular issue where a domain name is granted solely to registered companies, unlike in Russia. As Imobilazer indicated, the early bird catches the worm. If the company is unsatisfied with this policy, it can explore alternative options.
Moreover, when it comes to international domains, this matter is not even raised. However, how does benefiting from this circumstance serve you? Is it about poaching someone else's clients?