Google Play is Google’s latest attempt at aggregating all their apps and creating an app store for Android phones and tablets. Many developers are diversifying their app portfolio by building beyond the iOS to gain more visibility. While iOS is undoubtedly the most popular app platform, Google Play (Android) is fast becoming a recognized platform for the plethora of Android smartphones and tablets in the market. With more applications going live on Google Play (Android), many ecosystems like Android face the harsh reality of some unscrupulous bad developers launching misleading and low-quality apps potentially infringing on a brand’s identity. A reporting system is essential to tackle such legally sensitive issues and Google Play has a system in place for legal brand owners to file a trademark infringement report. The Google Play trademark infringement form is bundled with the parent form Google uses to tackle any content removal from Google. Be sure to follow the steps as indicated on the Google website and do have all the documentation ready to ensure a smooth filing process.
Report Trademark Infringement in Google Play
1. Go directly to the Google Play trademark infringement webpage
2. Be sure to have the necessary documents before filling out the form. Note that you should not contact them by email. You should use the Google Play online form or send them a snail mail.
3. Check that you have the following items before you fill out the form. (as stated on their website)
- Name of trademark owner
- Contact information (name, address, phone and email)
- List of trademarks and countries registered in
- List of Android applications that are being infringed upon
- Include these 2 statements: ”I have a good faith belief that use of the trademarks described above in Google Play application described above are not authorized by the trademark owner or its agent, nor is such use otherwise permissible under law” and ”I represent that the information in this notification is true and correct and that I am authorized to act on behalf of the trademark owner”
- Make sure to sign the document before sending it in
4. Google will review your form and take action accordingly. You can also send in your details to the Google Legal Support team (found on their webpage).
- Google, Inc.
- Attn: Google Legal Support, Google Play Complaints
- 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway
- Mountain View, CA 94043
Google Trademark Infringement Form
File a Google Play Trademark Infringement Report
What do you think of apps that infringe on popular brands? How do you think app platforms like Google, etc. should deal with it? Disclaimer: Note this is not legal advice and should not be taken as is. Please research carefully on your own and file your report.
Image Credit: Google
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