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Internet regulation by particular states almost inevitably has a significant impact on out-of-state activities and interstate commerce. Accordingly, courts have invalidated a number of state laws restricting internet-related activities under the federal Constitution’s so-called 'dormant commerce clause'.

The Child Online Protection Act has cleared its first hurdle before the Supreme Court, but this was a limited test that left many questions unanswered concerning the act’s constitutionality. In spite of their different approaches, six justices have indicated significant concerns about this issue. The future of the act thus remains uncertain.

Recent guidelines drafted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Secret Service outline practices advocated by these bodies to deter and respond to cyberattacks. They are a useful source for businesses that wish to formulate a proactive and responsive strategy to this threat.

A new Minnesota internet privacy bill provides consumers with a right of action against both internet service providers (ISPs) and spammers for violation of its provisions; but its enactment presents a troubling development for ISPs due to the restrictions and uncertainties of a vague, untested statutory text.

While the constitutionality of the Anti-cybersquatting Consumer Protection Act's jurisdiction over domain names has been questioned, analysis shows that fits squarely within the boundaries of established law and relies upon a court’s sovereign power to adjudicate the rights to an item of property under the custody of the law.

The new '.us' country-code top-level domain for the United States within the global domain name system went live on April 24 2002. Names within this domain can be registered by US citizens and residents, as well as businesses and organizations with a genuine presence in the United States.

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