After just writing my post about Microsoft suing Amish Shah’s Digispace over cybersquatting issues, now we’ve got ABC warning James Malanchik’s affiliates that if they use any of ABC’s trademarks that they will be pursued.
Here is what James told his affiliates about what ABC is saying not to do.
- You may NOT post any domains that have James Malinchak’s name in them.
- You may NOT post any domains that have ABC and/or the title of the show.
- You may NOT use the title of the show, or the ABC network name in any way that could be interpreted as either the show or the network endorsing James’ content or product.
It’s my opinion that we are going to start seeing a lot more enforcement over trademarks in domains and marketing campaigns. Want everyone to be aware about this because ignorance doesn’t mean innocence.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Ok, rules 2 and 3 I can understand. But seriously, how can rule 1 be acceptable? The only one who could make that rule and enforce it is James Malinchak.
I agree with Tom on the rule #1 bit. But c’mon, an “as featured on” should be completely acceptable… especially if there is fine print that states “the use of the abc logo does not mean that abc nor it’s affiliates endorse…etc.”
I mean, they put the dude on the show!!! C’mon.
This is why it is smart to own domains before something happens as far as a product goes… So if you know a product is being released get the domain name and throw up a wordpress blog with a post then if they are unhappy you can show them it was before they even released the news that they were releasing a product.
Interesting thoughts, thanks for sharing!
David King
Actually, David, that brings up a good point. Since James M. was already in business with his name BEFORE the show, how can ABC do this?
Just shows how greedy the networks are.