Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Did you know? Facebook Intellectual Property

Did you know that you can stop someone from using your trademark on facebook? For example if an individual were to try and take the username "JoeysClothing", if that name is trademarked then the trademark owner may file a notice of intellectual property infringement form on Facebook.

Taken from the Facebook Copyright Policy page:

How to Report Claims of Intellectual Property Infringement

Facebook is committed to protecting the intellectual property of third parties. On this page, rights holders will find information regarding how to report copyright and other intellectual property infringements by users posting content on our website, and answers to some frequently asked questions regarding our policies.

If you are a user concerned about the removal of your content, you may file a counter-notice. You can do so through the email notification you received, or in the warning at the top of your home page.

If you are a user concerned about the security of your account, please visit our Security Help Page.

How to report claims of copyright infringement by users

To report a copyright infringement by a Facebook user, all you need to do is fill out our automated DMCA form. This form is the fastest way to report a copyright infringement. Although we will review reports in all languages, it will speed our review if you can submit your report in English.

If you prefer, you can also send a DMCA notice to our designated agent (information below).

How to report other claims of intellectual property infringement by users

If you wish to report other claims of intellectual property infringement (i.e. non-copyright) by a Facebook user, all you need to do is fill out ourautomated IP infringement form. We appreciate your cooperation in providing an English translation of your report, when possible.

Trademarkia is currently in the process of creating a social media user name check for you to search over 500+ popular social media sites on the availability of your user name. The upcoming social media feature on Trademarkia is in beta mode, test it out and let us know your feedback. See: http://www.trademarkia.com/social-media-namecheck.aspx.