Question by Chrysalia: What copyright laws apply to a website name?
I am starting a home-based business. I’m looking at ideas for website names and have a really catchy one. Problem is, the name is derived from a location name on classic Star Trek. The business has nothing to do with television, space or aliens and I am only catering to a local clientele (near Vancouver BC), but I suspect it would still be copyright infringement. What can/can’t I do (legally)?
Best answer:
Answer by ron_mexico
Copyright does NOT protect names.
A name may be protected as a trademark if it is used in commerce as a source of goods or services. Keep in mind, however, that trademark rights are not a monopoly on a particular name (e.g., Delta is a separate trademark for airlines, tools, and faucets).
http://www.copyright.gov/circs/circ34.html
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