.ZIP Domains - Who The Fuck Thought This Was a Good Idea?

Category: Facepalm Status: SERIOUSLY?! Published: When Bad Ideas Won Author: Captain Hindsight

1. Abstract

Whoever thought .ZIP domains were a good idea probably also thinks USB always goes in right the first time.

2. Introduction

DNS: "Let's avoid TLDs that match file extensions."
ICANN: "Hold my beer. Introducing .ZIP!"

3. Security Nightmares

3.1. The "Is It File Or Website?" Game

You say: "Check out important-docs.zip"
Normal person hears: "I'm sending you a compressed file"
Actual reality: It's a possibly malicious website

NARRATOR: And that's how Dave from accounting got fired.

4. Technical Chaos

if (filename.endsWith('.zip')) {
  downloadAndScan(filename);
}
        

Every developer who wrote code like this: "Am I a joke to you?"

4.1. Legacy Systems

Developer 1: "Our regex filters .zip files for security."
Developer 2: "But what about .zip domains?"
Developer 1: [thousand-yard stare]

5. The Future Is Bleak

Coming soon to a DNS near you:

6. Conclusion

.ZIP domains: Where "technically possible" triumphed over "absolutely terrible idea." The internet was a mistake.