An Omaha business looking to register its name on the Internet found someone had beaten them to it by seconds, then was told the name could still be had for a price.

Brown’s Pest Control owner Russ Brown and his son track down pests like spiders, but never expected their new business would get tangled in the Web. "They held our name hostage," says Russ.

To make sure potential customers find their Web site, the Browns needed to register their domain name. Network Solutions told them nobody had it, but when Russ called another Internet firm with a cheaper registration fee, the name he wanted had already been taken.

“It would almost have to be a miracle to happen in that time frame," says Russ. "It happened to us and I wonder how many other people it happens to?"

The Browns fell into a domain name hostage situation called “front running.” While searching to see if their company name is available, an Internet registration firm grabbed the name first and told them they could have it for a price.

Network Solutions admits grabbing domains right after someone searches for them, not to hold the names hostage, but to protect consumers from other companies that might lock up domains long term.

Network Solutions releases the names after four days. The Browns didn't know that and paid the company $35 a year for a rights fee.

“When you register a domain name, watch out,” says Keith Brown of Brown’s Pest Control. “As soon as you apply for one and look around for a better price they act like they own your name."

A class action lawsuit has been filed in California against Network Solutions. The suit alleges the company grabs a domain name right after someone checks to see if the name is still available, then charges the consumer to buy it.

Network Solutions declined to comment on the lawsuit, but says it's only trying to protect consumers and an explanation can be found on its Web site.