A couple days ago, I got an email from the ONE domain outlet I’ve used to sell domains for the past 7 years, Afternic.

Afternic Decides To Remove Adult & Gambling Domains From Web Site

ORLANDO, FL — 11/10/2006 – After extensive consideration, we have decided to no longer accept domain names that promote hate, sex, obscenity or self-destructive behavior, such as substance abuse, violence and gambling. We will also no longer accept domain names that infringe on trademarks. The sole rationale behind our decision is to make Afternic a more comfortable site for mainstream domain name shoppers, especially small business owners. We recognize that taking a leadership role on this issue may have a negative financial impact on our business in the near term. Nonetheless, we believe strongly that it’s the right thing long-term decision for our industry and Afternic.

In the next few days, we will de-list these kinds of domain names currently posted on our site. Members who own such names will receive a letter from us informing them which names will no longer be listed. We hope that they, and others, will understand that we have no interest in censorship and that we fully support First Amendment rights to freedom of speech and expression. And, there is certainly no lack of other Internet sites where such names are welcomed.

The Internet, much like the early days of television, is still a new frontier. We believe it is up to the industry leaders-and we include Afternic here-to step up and determine what constitutes professional standards and practices. We take this action in the interest of socially responsible corporate behavior and hope that it leads to further healthy industry dialog and discussion on the topic.

We greatly appreciate your business and support of Afternic, and will continue to endeavor to earn your confidence and trust.

My main argument with this policy is that this was all out of the blue. There was no warning, no debate, no poll of the loyal domain owners that made Roger Collins (CEO) “fat and happy”, as they say. Afternic, with 24-48 hours notice removed all questionably themed named from their site. Truthfully, they’re still removing names, but you get the idea.

Anyway, on with the funny part…. the backlash. I saw it coming and Roger should have seen it from a mile away. Here’s a couple choice results of the decision:

Roger playing poker photos
Adult & Gambling Domains
new adult names now
Don’t want my featured gift now
Afternic deletes sex and gambling names

I’m still waiting for Afternic to post some form of apology to its paying members.