SMD File Revocation and Re-generation by TMCH TMDB during Sunrise

ICANN sent the following notice regarding SMD revocation and reissue. The revocation of SMD files will NOT affect sunrise applications and registrations that are processed prior to December 14.  After the SMD files are revoked and reissued, Registrars will have to use the newly issued files for Sunrise application.  Only valid SMD files will be accepted for Sunrise applications.

From: tmch-tech-bounces@icann.org [mailto:tmch-tech-bounces@icann.org] On Behalf Of Dana King

Sent: Monday, November 25, 2013, 10:01 AM

To: tmch-tech@icann.org

Subject: [tmch-tech] SMD File Revocation and Re-generation

Dear Colleagues,

On December 14^th, a full set of replacement SMDs will be generated for download by all current rights holders; all previously generated SMD files will be revoked.  We are performing this mass revocation in order to enhance and improve the use of SMD files.  The new SMD files will be generated without whitespaces, they will be synchronized to coincide with the first Sunrise date and they will support multi-year mark registration.

Beginning at 12.01 UTC on December 14^th, Trademark Holders and Agents with eligible TMCH records may – at their convenience – log in to their account(s) in the Trademark Clearinghouse (TMCH) and download the new SMD file.  The new SMD files can be provided to a registrar for the registration of a domain name during a TLD Sunrise period.

Test SMD files using the new, without whitespaces, format will be made available approximately three (3) weeks prior to the revocation to allow Registries and Registrars to conduct tests using SMD files without whitespaces.

Every effort has been made to minimize any disruption caused by the transition and services desks at Deloitte, ICANN, and IBM will be prepared to handle any potential increase in the volume of customer service questions.

The schedule is as follows:

November 25^th:  Four test SMD files without whitespaces will be made available for download and testing.  The four test files will include one of each of the following types:  Active SMD, Revoked SMD, Invalid SMD and Revoked TMV Certificate (all in English).

The test SMD files will be published to ICANN’s website (see http://newgtlds.icann.org/en/about/trademark-clearinghouse).

December 14^th:  SMD files revoked early morning UTC; revoked files will remain valid until 12.00 UTC on December 15th.  At any time after 12.01 UTC on December 15th,  SMD files may be downloaded from the TMCH site.  All new files generated after this time will, by default, be generated without white spaces.

Reminder notices will be sent out weekly leading up to the revocation. If you have any questions, please email the list so the question and answer can be seen/shared by all.

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