Swiss Tax Authority Acquires Bahamas Domain After Costly URL Typo
When a web address on a printed flyer contains a typo, especially one that reaches over 100,000 households, it can lead to significant complications. This was the situation faced by the Swiss canton of Basel-Stadt, which found a clever solution to rectify their online tax filing URL mistake.
The Typo Incident in Basel-Stadt
The Basel tax administration recently distributed flyers intended to guide residents to an online platform for filing taxes. However, an important detail was overlooked: the Swiss country code top-level domain (ccTLD) “.ch” was mistakenly omitted, leaving the URL with just the Basel-Stadt suffix “.bs.” This suffix is actually the ccTLD for the Bahamas.
Quick Thinking and a Smart Solution
According to SRF, a spokesperson for the finance department of Basel-Stadt explained the dilemma. The cost to reprint and distribute new flyers was estimated at around $100,000. In contrast, purchasing the domain with the typo for just $1,000 was a much more budget-friendly choice.
Plans for the New Domain
While the new URL that includes the correct domain is in the process of being set up, it is not yet live. The registration process is expected to take some time before it becomes operational.
Key Takeaways
- Typo on Flyers: A critical mistake led to an incorrect web address.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Buying the domain was significantly cheaper than reprinting.
- Redirect Implementation: A redirect will guide users to the correct website once it is live.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of double-checking web addresses before printing promotional materials. For more information on best practices for digital marketing and online presence, you can explore our digital marketing tips.
