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Can someone use another company's name to draw traffic?
#1
Posted 10 December 2011 - 04:45 PM
Can he do this? Legally?
He doesn't include the company's ".com" in anything. And he doesn't include the space in the company's name. So let's say we were talking about Host Gator (hostgator.com) - which we're not. But if you searched for "hostgator.com reviews", he uses "HostGator" in all of his title tags and in the querystring to his website.
It's obvious what he's doing. And I'm sure he's doing the same with some of the company's competitors. What I'm wondering is - can he? Can we stop him? His stupid videos are pushing down actual, useful info on the company further on the the serps.
#2
Posted 11 December 2011 - 07:56 AM
#3
Posted 11 December 2011 - 11:03 AM
#4
Posted 11 December 2011 - 12:46 PM
In practice, you might need to give them a nudge. I'd suggest using the "Give us feedback" link (at the bottom of a page of search results for a relevant keyword), and then choose either "I had a bad experience with a website I found on Google." or "Google's search results weren't helpful."
As for legality, I agree with Chris. They are not infringing copyright; they are not passing themselves off as the company in question. You didn't mention in which jurisdiction they are based, but I doubt if it would actually be illegal, wherever they are.
#5
Posted 11 December 2011 - 01:04 PM
For the record, I've tried doing that in the past for bad stuff and nothing has ever happened.
You may have more luck reporting something while logged into your GWMT account.
#6
Posted 12 December 2011 - 10:33 AM
#7
Posted 12 December 2011 - 01:54 PM
Enforcement is up to the trademark owner, however.
#8
Posted 12 December 2011 - 04:29 PM
Using anothers registered trademark on goods for sale (Passing off) is illegal as is purporting to represent another company.
#9
Posted 12 December 2011 - 04:34 PM
http://www.wipo.int/...sing.htm#advert
http://www.wipo.int/...tising.htm#comp
#10
Posted 12 December 2011 - 04:38 PM
I've gotten the info I need. Thanks.
#11
Posted 12 December 2011 - 08:20 PM
I agree that comparative advertising is not illegal. Unauthorized use of a trademark, however, is.
#12
Posted 12 December 2011 - 08:29 PM
Gracias!
#13
Posted 12 December 2011 - 08:56 PM
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