To determine if a domain name is subject to a trademark, follow these steps:
1. Check Trademark Databases
Search trademark databases to see if the domain name or a similar term is registered as a trademark.
- United States: USPTO Trademark Search (TESS)
- European Union: EUIPO Trademark Search
- United Kingdom: UKIPO Trademark Search
- Canada: CIPO Trademark Search
- Global Database: WIPO Global Brand Database
- Australia: IP Australia Trademark Search
- Other Countries: Check the national IP office websites.
2. Use Online Trademark Check Tools
Some domain registrars and IP protection services provide automated trademark checks. Tools like:
3. Conduct a Google & Social Media Search
- Search your domain name on Google, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to check for businesses using the same name.
- Look for companies that have already established branding or common-law trademarks.
4. Check Domain Name Databases
- Look up WHOIS records on Whois Lookup to see if similar domains are owned by trademark holders.
- Use UDRP Search to check for past domain disputes related to the name.
5. Search for Business Registrations
- Check business registries for company names matching the domain in the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, etc.
- Websites like OpenCorporates provide business registration records globally.
6. Review Trademark Classification & Industry
- Even if a trademark exists, it may be for a different industry.
- Check the Nice Classification (NCL) (international trademark classification system) to see if the name applies to your intended use.
7. Get Legal Advice
- If unsure, consult an IP attorney to assess potential risks and whether the domain name could be considered infringing.
8. Take Preventive Measures
If you’re registering a new domain name:
- Choose a name that is unique and doesn’t resemble existing trademarks.
- Avoid using well-known brand names or slight variations of them.
- Consider conducting a comprehensive trademark clearance search before registration.
Key Takeaways
- A domain name is subject to a trademark if it creates a likelihood of confusion with an existing trademark.
- Conduct thorough searches in trademark and domain databases.
- Evaluate factors like similarity, relatedness of goods/services, and intent.
- Be aware of domain-specific laws like UDRP and ACPA.
- Seek legal advice if there’s any doubt about potential conflicts.
By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of trademark infringement and ensure compliance with intellectual property laws.