Legal Question in Intellectual Property in New Jersey

Re: Is My web site name protected by my registration?

Send an email to [email protected] with information proving you own the domain name which is being used as the group name. Also send an email to [email protected] to advise them that the AOL address is being used in connection with a trademark infringement. Thirdly, send the infringer a cease and desist letter demanding an immediate stop to the trademark infringement.

You would get the most attention if the cease and desist letter is written by an experienced trademark litigator.

Now for the shameless plug. i have taken action against several of these domain related trademark infringer types in the past with good success. I can help you if you want experienced legal help.

Fast action is required as delays in taking action may weaken your case.

Re: Is My web site name protected by my registration?

There should be two ways to skin this cat, depending upon how the domain name registration was done. By the sound of it, either the departing employee had been designated the "administrative contact" or she had access to the passwords and fooled the registrar into making the changes.

If you are the administrative contact, then you can regain control relatively easily by contacting the registrar. If she is the administrative contact, then you will have to provide evidence in writing to the registrar that the administrative contact should be changed -- not difficult, but often requires original documents sent under notary seal and/or a legal opinion from your lawyer.

Best wishes,

LDWG

Re: Is My web site name protected by my registration?

The intellectual property right issue possibly involved is Trademark Infringement. It depends on many factors but two key questions are 1)do you use the site name as a trademark to advertise goods or services? 2)How exactly is the other person using it? Is she/he confusing consumers to think she is associated with you or your site?

Re: Is My web site name protected by my registration?

You need to send them Cease and Desist letter