What key protocols can brands implement to protect their brand? 

•    When considering various possibilities for a new brand, conduct a basic domain name search first and if available secure key extensions e.g. .com for those variations.
•    Maintain an online artwork library for your brand. Keep it updated as iterations change. This can be invaluable for a service provider such as Lexsynergy when attempting online enforcement.
•    I can not emphasise enough the benefits of a centralised domain portfolio with a single provider from an enforcement perspective.
•    Come up with a domain policy document. For example, are commercial partners/affiliates allowed to register your brand in domain names? This may need to be addressed in contracts.
•    Do seek to register your brand as a trade mark in key jurisdictions (not just where you intend to trade but also in key infringement territories.) Do register the brand as both a word mark and also as a figurative logo mark (if appropriate).

What case have you enjoyed working on the most?

Working ultimately on behalf of a well-known Premier League footballer to recover a domain name. It was a high-profile case from a few years ago and it combined my love of sport with my interest in Intellectual Property.

What is your craziest story that has happened to you whilst working within Lexsynergy?

Usually, we work on behalf of brand owners to recover conflicting domain names. There was one case, where the brand protection team on behalf of the other side, i.e. on behalf of an individual to help defend them against a multi-national brand owner. I am pleased to say that the matter was settled.

What’s your favourite brand protection joke?

If a brand owner attempts to enforce their brand online without having sought to seek registered trade mark protection for their brand! It is not impossible, but makes it extremely difficult and potentially costly!