• DM_ME_SQUIRRELS@lemmy.world
          link
          fedilink
          English
          arrow-up
          7
          ·
          1 year ago

          Is there any way to invalidate their trademark if there’s proof that the term was used on AOL? Would be a fun way to fuck with them.

          • WarmSoda@lemm.ee
            link
            fedilink
            English
            arrow-up
            2
            ·
            1 year ago

            This is the kind of stuff I would use my money for if I was filthy rich.

      • lurkinggizmo@lemmy.world
        link
        fedilink
        English
        arrow-up
        1
        ·
        1 year ago

        How does that work in the US? Since e.g. in the EU you can trademark everything and anything you like no questions asked almost. But it doesn’t mean anything if someone will dispute it. It doesn’t give you any rights or guarantees.

        • everett@lemmy.ml
          link
          fedilink
          English
          arrow-up
          2
          ·
          1 year ago

          This isn’t my area of expertise, but I believe you trademark something by simply using it with disclaimer language/the ™ symbol to warn others to stay away, that it’s yours. The ® symbol is used if you’ve taken the step of officially registering it and it’s been reviewed/approved by the government, like with AMA, so it’s considered stronger.

          And unlike patents/copyright, trademarks last forever as long as you keep using them.

          • lurkinggizmo@lemmy.world
            link
            fedilink
            English
            arrow-up
            2
            ·
            1 year ago

            Can’t add anything else to the discussion, i know too little about it. But a US tm is not legal in the EU without separate registration. But i would not waste any energy on it. The value is in the community, not in the name.