What is a trademark?

A trademark can be a word, symbol, slogan, design, or any combination of these. It identifies a brand and sets it apart from other brands.

What is trademark infringement?

Trademark infringement occurs when a trademark is used without its owner's explicit consent. Even if the trademark is altered or only partially used, that act may still amount to infringement. Trademark infringement includes using another brand's name or logo in your shop name or avatar without the explicit consent of the brand owner. This can confuse or mislead customers into thinking the brand is operating your shop.

Tips to avoid trademark infringement with your shop name and avatar

❗These tips are not intended as legal advice and do not provide an exhaustive account of all the steps you may need to undertake to avoid trademark infringement.

✅Dos

• Use an original name for your shop's brand name.
  • Names that are general and descriptive work well, as they are easier to search! Examples include "Outdoor Gear Collection Store", "Handmade Jewelry Workshop", etc.
• Use an original logo for your shop's avatar. Examples include images of landscapes or abstract art patterns.
• If you own a brand, ensure you have completed your brand authorization application before using your brand name and logo.

⛔Don'ts

• Do not use any brand's trademarks (name, logos, designs, etc.) in your shop name or avatar unless you have permission.
  • If you do have permission, submit a Letter of Authorization through our Brand Authorization portal to confirm your rights. Wait for our approval before using the trademarks.
  • Even with approved Brand Authorization to use a brand's trademarks, you cannot name your shop or create an avatar that makes it look like the official shop of that brand, unless you have the Official Shop badge. Examples that are not allowed include:
    • Official TikTok Store, Authorized TikTok Store, Flagship TikTok Store, Authentic TikTok Store, Genuine TikTok Store, Global TikTok Store, TikTok.com, TikTok US Store, TikTok Inc, TikTok Outlet, TikTok Store, TikTok Hub.
• Attempts to circumvent our brand checks are also strictly prohibited. This includes using textual or visual blockers to hide brand names and logos. Examples include:
  • Modifying or misspelling a brand name with numbers, symbols, or special characters (e.g., T1KT@k).
  • Modifying a brand name by using alternative characters (e.g., TikT0k), repeating or switching characters (e.g., TiiiikToook, TokTik), misspelling or shortening it (e.g., TikTock, TT), or splitting it using spaces (e.g., Tik Tok).
  • Modifying a brand logo by applying mosaics or filters to it, or using deliberately angled images.
  • Using a product image or photo that includes a brand logo.

Consequences of Infringement

We will reset your shop name and avatar if we find it infringes on a third party's trademark. We may take additional enforcement actions for more severe infringements.