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Someone Registered My Business Name as a .com — Wants $10K

Started by domain_squatter_victim · Nov 16, 2025 · 9 replies
For informational purposes only. This is not legal advice.
DS
domain_squatter_victimOP

Looking for advice on this situation. Someone Registered My Business Name as a .com - Wants $10K Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Details: I'm in a situation where I need to understand my legal options. Has anyone dealt with something similar?

RC
RachelM_ConsumerLawAttorney

Before sending any cease and desist, make sure you actually own the IP you're claiming. I've seen cases where the person sending the C&D didn't have standing because they never properly registered the copyright.

AT
anxious_tenant_sd

Fair use is one of the most misunderstood concepts in IP law. It's a defense, not a right. You can't know for certain whether something is fair use until a court rules on it. The four-factor test is inherently case-specific.

ES
EstatePlannerNYC

Before sending any cease and desist, make sure you actually own the IP you're claiming. I've seen cases where the person sending the C&D didn't have standing because they never properly registered the copyright.

FT
FL_TenantLaw_AttorneyAttorney

Before sending any cease and desist, make sure you actually own the IP you're claiming. I've seen cases where the person sending the C&D didn't have standing because they never properly registered the copyright.

AT
anxious_tenant_sd

Before sending any cease and desist, make sure you actually own the IP you're claiming. I've seen cases where the person sending the C&D didn't have standing because they never properly registered the copyright.

ES
EstatePlannerNYC

This is a common issue that comes down to whether the work was "work for hire" or independent contractor work. The Copyright Act has specific definitions for each, and the distinction matters enormously.

FT
FL_TenantLaw_AttorneyAttorney

This is a common issue that comes down to whether the work was "work for hire" or independent contractor work. The Copyright Act has specific definitions for each, and the distinction matters enormously.

SA
SarahConsumerRights

Registration with the Copyright Office is important for enforcement. You can't sue for statutory damages or attorney fees without registration. The filing fee is $65 and it's worth doing for any valuable creative work.

DS
domain_squatter_victimOP

Update: Thanks everyone for the guidance. I consulted with an attorney and we're moving forward. The advice here helped me understand what questions to ask and what to expect. Will update when there's a resolution.

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