Courtesy: EDUCOM. INTERNET ADDRESS FIRM SUBJECT OF ANTITRUST PROBE The Justice Department has launched an inquiry into allegations that Network Solutions (NSI) has violated antitrust laws by retaining absolute ownership of a database of customer names and electronic addresses, according to sources. The allegations have been leveled by several NSI rivals who claim they need access to the database in order to effectively compete against the company. NSI is arguing that language in the company's agreement with the National Science Foundation allows the company to claim ownership of any intellectual property created in the address-registration process. NSI's Christopher Clough contends it is "very clear" that NSI has the rights to the data. In addition, NSI claims that releasing the data could cause privacy problems that would allow Internet retailers to send out millions of bulk e-mail messages. A Justice department spokeswoman says the department is "looking into the possibility of anti-competitive practices in the Internet address registration industry." Source: Washington Post 05/05/99