A dispute is brewing over new internet addresses for Hong Kong proposed by the local authority.
Beginning on January 5, the Hong Kong Domain Name Registration Company will launch a service for those seeking domains that end in '.hk' rather than '.com.hk' or '.edu.hk'. A company that has 'luckydragon.com.hk' can apply for 'luckydragon.hk'.
However, some internet users feel the moves are pressuring them to register and pay for new names to protect those they already own.
Maren Leizaola, manager of technology consultancy and equipment reseller HKdotCom, last week called on his customers to respond to the changes.
Mr Leizaola also operates SARNic, a company that registers third-level domains under 'hk.com'.
'The way Hong Kong Domain is opening .hk is similar to throwing a hand grenade into a China shop. They are just dropping it on our heads, whether we like it or not. I think whatever they are trying to do should be postponed for a few months,' Mr Leizaola said.
Once the policy went into effect, there would be no turning back, he said.