As it relates to domain names... a word, phrase or slogan used to identify and
distinguish the source of the goods or services. Trademark law may be different
worldwide. If someone registers a domain name such as microsoft.tv then
Microsoft would need to go to the courts in Tuvala to fight to get the name
back. Expensive international litigation is one reason why it is important to
protect your trademarks before someone else registers the names.
What is a trademark or service mark?
A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol or design, or a combination of words,
phrases, symbols or designs, that identifies and distinguishes the source of the
goods of one party from those of others.
A service mark is the same as a trademark, except that it identifies and
distinguishes the source of a service rather than a product. Throughout this
booklet, the terms "trademark" and "mark" refer to both trademarks and service
marks.
United States Patent and Trademark Search
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International Trademark Association
The International Trademark Association (INTA) is a not-for-profit membership
association of more than 4,600 trademark owners and professionals, from more
than 180 countries, dedicated to the support and advancement of trademarks and
related intellectual property as elements of fair and effective national and
international commerce.
The Association was founded in 1878 by 17 merchants and manufacturers who saw a
need for an organization “to protect and promote the rights of trademark owners,
to secure useful legislation and to give aid and encouragement to all efforts
for the advancement and observance of trademark rights.” After 125 years, INTA
continues its mission to represent the trademark community, shape public policy
and advance professional knowledge and development.
Along with its leadership, INTA’s most important asset is the talented and
committed group of volunteers who serve on its committees. INTA’s goal is to
make the best use of these vital resources to maintain its leadership position
in the trademark community.
