What's changing with the AdWords Trademark Policy? When?
Google has made a policy revision that applies to complaints we receive regarding trademark use in keywords. Beginning 4 June 2009, keywords that were restricted as a result of a trademark investigation will no longer be restricted in the following regions:
Why did Google change its trademark policy?
Google's goal is to provide our users with the most relevant information, whether from search results or advertisements, and we believe users benefit from having more choice. Our policy aims to balance the interests of users, advertisers, and trademark owners while leveling the playing field for all advertisers.Who's affected by the policy change?
Google's revised trademark policy applies to trademarks held in the regions listed above. We will continue to handle trademark complaints for all other regions pursuant to the existing trademark policy.
What will happen to existing trademark complaints?
Beginning 4 June 2009, keywords that were restricted as a result of a trademark complaint and investigation will no longer be restricted in the affected regions listed above. We will continue to monitor and restrict trademark use in ad text if your complaint indicated that you were concerned with ad text.
Will Google respond to trademark complaints in the affected regions?
Yes. With respect to those regions, Google will continue to perform investigations related to ad text, as is currently the case in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Ireland.
What are your plans to extend this policy to additional regions?
The revised policy only applies to the indicated regions above. We do not have any plans to extend this policy at this time.
Will trademark terms in my account start triggering ads?
Keywords that were restricted as a result of a trademark investigation may begin triggering your ads in the affected regions, starting 4 June 2009.
Does this mean that I can now use trademark terms as keywords?
Google is not in a position to make recommendations regarding the use of terms corresponding to trademarks. If you have further questions, we encourage you to contact your legal counsel and consult the AdWords Terms and Conditions.
How do I change the list of authorized users of my trademark in ad text?
If you would like to edit the list of authorized users of your trademark in your current trademark complaint, please send us a revised list. Learn more about our trademark authorization procedure.
Whom should I contact if I have further questions about this policy change?
You can email trademark-policy-revision@google.com regarding any questions you might have about the policy change.
