Cybersquatting

Cybersquatting is a form of trademark infringement that involves the registration of a domain name that is identical or similar to an established trademark or brand name, with the intention of profiting from the reputation and goodwill associated with that trademark or brand. Cybersquatters typically register domain names that are highly desirable or valuable, such as the name of a popular brand or celebrity, with the intention of selling the domain name to the trademark owner or a third party at an inflated price.

Cybersquatting can be harmful to businesses and consumers. When a cybersquatter registers a domain name that is similar to an established trademark, it can lead to confusion among consumers and harm the reputation and goodwill of the trademark. Additionally, cybersquatting can prevent legitimate businesses from using their own trademarks in their domain names, and can result in costly and time-consuming legal battles to regain control of the domain name.

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From our blog

Trademark Registration: DIY vs Professional Service

Filing for trademark registration is something anybody can do with a single online application. Many business owners, however, decide to wait with trademark registration because the process can appear quite complicated at first sight. Applying without a legal representative can be a difficult and time-consuming process. Mistakes and errors are easy to make and can lead to weak trademark protection or the rejection of your trademark registration altogether.

McDonald’s lost its exclusive claim to Mc trademark

McDonald’s, or “McBully, as labelled by Pat McDonagh, the founder of Irish chain of fast-food restaurants Supermac’s, has suffered another defeat. Following the previous loss of its “Big Mac” trademark, the use of “Mc” is no longer protected by trademark.

Can you change your trademark over time?

Brands tend to evolve and undergo numerous changes over time. Many companies have changed their names to cater to a larger audience, either by altering their original logos for a more modern look or abandoning controversial words in their slogans. As the company expands beyond its planned offerings of goods and services or decides to take a different direction altogether, usually what follows are certain changes or even complete rebranding. A common question is then: can trademarks change over time? Well, it depends.