Facebook puts your trademarks at risk

Steven D. Goldberg, Esq. Wilmington, DE
sgoldberg@stevendgoldberg.com
http://www.stevendgoldberg.com
Contact me if you need assistance in forming/organizing a Delaware business entity or any matter of Delaware law. Delaware Forms and Publications are available at http://www.delawarellclaw.com

Facebook has announced a new feature which allows a person to register a Facebook username as a URL. The feature became available on June 13, 2009. This feature may be fun for Dick and Jane, however it places your trademarks at risk as a Facebook user can create a username with your trademark without your permission and become a cyber squatter.

Facebook has created an electronic registration form where you can register your trademark and avoid cybersquatters. The link is http://www.facebook.com/help/contact.php?show_form=username_rights. You can, of course, create a Facebook user name with your trademark and register your tradename yourself. To register your trademark you will need the registration number which appears on the certificate which you received from the Trademark Office.

Cybersquatting has become a problem for many trademark holders as well as celebrates.

I have an active Delaware business practice as well as a practice in Delaware’s State and Federal courts. If you or your client have a business matter or a matter which you wish to litigate in Delaware or has a matter pending in Delaware, we would appreciate the opportunity to consult with you regarding our representation. Please remember that we do not accept representation without a written engagement letter.