IP (intellectual property) can seem a bit of a mystery to many business owners, but a lack of knowledge or understanding can leave your business open to risk.  With our top tips you can avoid some of the common pitfalls we see:

• Don’t use images you find on the internet without permission. Someone will own the copyright and won’t take kindly to your copying.

• If you outsource design or content to third parties check your contract with them.  You won’t own the copyright unless the contract says so.

• Don’t use the ® symbol unless you have a registered trade mark.  Wrongly identifying something as a registered trade mark is a criminal offence under the UK Trade Marks Act.

• When choosing a new name, the key is research.  Don’t assume there will be no hurdles to that “perfect” name.  If it’s that good the chances are that someone already uses it in the same or a related sector and owns rights. 

• If you choose a brand very similar to someone else’s you may still infringe their rights.  A registered trade mark allows the owner to prevent the use of similar as well as identical brands.

• If setting up a new company, or naming a new product or service, don’t just check the name at Companies House or assume that because the domain name is available that your chosen name is available to use.  Always check the trade mark register as well.

• Changing an existing name from plural to singular or vice versa is not enough to avoid trade mark infringement.

• And a misspelling of an existing brand will still infringe a registered trade mark.

• If your brand is important and/or valuable to your business, protect it with a registered trade mark.  A trade mark registration is a powerful monopoly right and a valuable business asset.

• If you design patterns, products or packaging, consider registered design protection before you make your design public.

• If you have an innovation and want to consider patent protection, speak to a Chartered Patent Attorney before you disclose your innovation in any way.  Disclosure before a patent is filed removes the ability to obtain valid patent protection.

• Don’t assume that IP is not relevant to you.  All businesses use, create and own IP.  Know your rights and ensure that some of the most valuable assets in your business are protected.

To find out more about the IP in your business and some cost-effective ways to protect your interests why not get in touch with us for a free no obligation chat.