GLIPS (Global Intellectual Property System - www.glips.org), recently hosted the Global Trademark Bullying Conference, bringing together prominent trademark registration bodies, attorneys, intellectual property experts, lawmakers, and global consultants. The conference focused on the rising concern of trademark bullying, particularly in the context of today's digital economy, social media prevalence, and expanding e-commerce landscape.
Trademark bullying, as discussed during the event, refers to a strategic practice where entities exploit the digital vulnerabilities of today’s market. These 'trademark bullies' often register trademarks with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), despite the fact that such trademarks may already be in use in the U.S. or internationally by others who have not formally registered the marks. Once they secure USPTO registration, these bullies may file applications under the Madrid System via the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to gain trademark protection in additional countries. Armed with both USPTO and WIPO registrations, they can secure restraining orders against digital platforms, including social media and e-commerce sites, which are subject to U.S. jurisdiction. Consequently, the original users of these marks, who may not have registered them, face significant hurdles in continuing their operations on these digital platforms.
A representative of the Global Trademark Group, a group of companies focused on providing solutions for intellectual property protection, shared insights at the conference, stating, 'The best solution is to ensure that all trademark users are proactive in registering their trademarks, especially when there is a potential threat of a third party applying for the same mark.' The representative further explained that if the original trademark user is a U.S. entity, they can theoretically reclaim their rights through U.S. common law by demonstrating senior use of the mark. However, this process often incurs substantial attorney fees and causes potential business losses. To avoid such disruptions, many businesses end up entering into costly agreements with trademark bullies, paying royalties to continue using their marks.
To address this growing concern, the Global Trademark Group has introduced a novel AI-integrated system designed to counter trademark bullying. This technology is connected to the USPTO database, monitoring daily filings and detecting any newly registered trademarks that may already be in use by others but not formally registered. 'As soon as an application is filed, our AI system notifies the original user about the new trademark application, allowing them to swiftly register their trademark first, with only the official USPTO fees,' added the representative of the Global Trademark Group. The innovation has been praised as a proactive measure that can help businesses protect their intellectual property and avoid costly legal disputes.
One of the conference attendees noted the significance of this system. ”The AI-driven solution designed by the Global Trademark Group offers a practical approach to safeguarding trademarks against bullying, and it’s certainly something that will benefit our clients,' remarked a global trademark consultant, highlighting how the technology can serve as an early-warning tool to prevent the exploitation of unregistered marks.
In recognition of the efforts to counter trademark bullying, GLIPS awarded the firms of the Global Trademark Group with awards including,
- GLIPS Shield of Integrity Award to the firm, Global Trademark Pros
- GLIPS Global IP Vigilance Award to the firm, Global Trademark Masters
- GLIPS Global IP Excellence Award to the firm, Global Trademark Wizards
- GLIPS Shield of Innovation in Intellectual Property to the firm, Global Trademark Gurus
- GLIPS Trademark Defender Award to the firm, Global Trademark Genies
- GLIPS Excellence in IP Enforcement Award to the firm, Global Trademark Specialists
'Trademark bullying is a growing concern, and the Global Trademark Group’s AI system is a game-changer,' commented a GLIPS spokesperson. 'This innovation aligns with our mission to promote transparency and fairness in the trademark landscape, and we are pleased to recognize their contributions to the field.'
The GLIPS Awards stand as a testament to the Global Trademark Group’s commitment to protecting brands from being victimized by trademark bullies, offering an effective way to maintain brand identity in the digital age. 'We are honored to receive these awards from GLIPS,' said the representative of the Global Trademark Group expressing gratitude for the acknowledgment. 'Our goal is to protect businesses from being cornered by trademark bullies and to provide a streamlined solution that saves time, money, and ensures their intellectual property rights.'
The Global Trademark Bullying Conference served as a platform for addressing critical challenges and celebrated the technological advancements contributing to a fair and just trademark registration system, fostering an environment where brands can thrive without fear of unjust practices.
