We are committed to combatting copyright infringement and the sale of counterfeit goods. Here's some information to help you understand these issues and how to report them:
What Constitutes Counterfeit?
Counterfeit goods are products that mimic genuine items, often with the intent to deceive consumers.
What's Copyright Infringement?
Copyright infringement involves unauthorized use or reproduction of someone else's creative work, such as music, art, or literature.
What's Trademark Infringement?
Trademark infringement occurs when someone uses a registered trademark without permission.
Legally Permissible in Spoof or Comedy Videos But a Fine Line to Plagiarism
In the realm of spoof or comedy videos, there's a fine line between parody and plagiarism. Parody is legally allowed as it often involves humorous imitation, but crossing this line by copying content without transformative intent can lead to copyright issues.
Why is This a Problem?
Counterfeit and infringement harm creators and the industry as a whole. It undermines the hard work and creativity of artists and brands, diverting revenue away from genuine creators.
How to Report Counterfeit Goods and Intellectual Property Infringement
To report such activities, you can contact the appropriate authorities or platforms:
- Facebook: Use their reporting tools for copyright or trademark infringement.
- Facebook Copyright Infringement Form: https://m.facebook.com/help/contact/1758255661104383
- Intellectual Property Help Content: https://m.facebook.com/help/399224883474207
- Email: ip@fb.com
- Send a Letter:
Attn: Meta Designated Agent
1601 Willow Road
Menlo Park, California 94025 - Phone: 650-543-4800
- Shopify: Contact their support to report sellers offering counterfeit goods.
- Shopify Support: https://help.shopify.com/en/manual/compliance/intellectual-property
- Report a Merchant: https://www.shopify.com/legal/report-aup-violation
- Shopify Legal: https://www.shopify.com/legal
- U.S. Government: Report intellectual property infringement to relevant agencies like the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
- Report Online Vendor Selling Fakes: https://www.stopfakes.gov/Reporting-an-Online-Vendor-Selling-Fakes
- Secret Service Counterfeit Investigations: https://www.secretservice.gov/investigation/counterfeit
- Customs and Border Protection: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/e-allegations
- Federal Trade Commission: https://www.ftc.gov/office-inspector-general/reporting-fraud-waste-abuse-or-mismanagement
- National Intellectual Property Rights: https://www.iprcenter.gov/referral/report-ip-theft-form
- Department of Justice: https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/report-fraud
- (Non-USA) Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline: 0808 223 1133
- Legal Departments for Entertainment Companies (Warner Bros., Paramount, Disney, HBO Max, Netflix): Contact these companies' legal departments to report violations of their intellectual property rights.
We appreciate your help in maintaining the integrity of creative content and protecting the rights of artists and brands.
Legal Disclaimer:
This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized legal guidance, please consult with a qualified attorney directly. The information presented here is offered solely as a resource and may contain outdated or inaccurate information.