Heavy metal icons Slipknot have launched a federal lawsuit against the owners of Slipknot.com, seeking to gain control of a domain that has remained outside their possession for nearly 25 years. The lawsuit, filed on October 15, 2025, targets Slipknot Online Services, Ltd., an entity based in Grand Cayman that has controlled the domain since 2001.
After 25 years, Slipknot battles for control of their namesake domain in landmark cybersquatting lawsuit against offshore entity.
Under the Anti-Cybersquatting Consumer Protection Act, the masked metal outfit alleges the current domain exploits their reputation by hosting pay-per-click ads and commercial links unrelated to the band’s official merchandise or activities. The site reportedly links to Halloween costumes, promotional products, and travel deals rather than authentic band content, potentially confusing fans who might believe they’re visiting an official Slipknot website.
Since their rise to fame, Slipknot has operated slipknot1.com as their official website, having launched it in 1998. The band has never controlled the more intuitive slipknot.com domain, which they claim was registered specifically to profit from their goodwill and mislead fans.
Court documents include screenshots showing revenue-generating links on Slipknot.com, which the band’s legal team characterizes as classic cybersquatting.
While no direct sales of counterfeit merchandise are specified in the lawsuit, the band argues that the site monetizes Slipknot’s brand without authorization and could lead fans to purchase unrelated or potentially counterfeit products. The lawsuit specifically cites how the site causes financial damages for Slipknot by redirecting potential customers away from authentic merchandise.
The case presents notable challenges as it targets an anonymous, offshore entity, potentially complicating enforcement efforts. Legal experts suggest the outcome could establish important precedents for artists attempting to regain control of their digital identities.
Beyond seeking transfer of the domain, Slipknot is requesting financial damages for the unauthorized use of their name and reputation.
The lawsuit underscores growing concerns about consumer protection in online spaces, with the band emphasizing their desire to safeguard fans from being misled or defrauded through unauthorized websites that leverage their established brand identity.
Despite some public skepticism about the lawsuit, the band maintains that legal action was necessary after screenshot evidence revealed links to counterfeit merchandise connected to the domain.
As industry experts note, this situation highlights why many artists now prioritize diversified income streams to protect their brand and maximize earnings across legitimate channels like merchandise, which represents a significant revenue source for successful bands. Proper registration with performing rights organizations could further help the band protect their intellectual property and ensure they receive royalties from all legitimate uses of their music and brand.
