If you discover someone has been using your intellectual property (IP) without your consent, you might feel understandably angry. This is even more true if that other party has been doing so for their own financial gain.
You might encounter people who tell you it is no big deal. They might say that the other party operates in a different industry or geographic area, so it won’t affect you.
Your brand could be immeasurably harmed
If someone sets up a business with the same or a similar name or logo as yours in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, there is a high chance that some people will confuse the two. They might assume you have expanded your operations and that the new place is also yours. Those who live closer to that business than yours might start going to that one instead, costing you profits. If that store has bad customer service, your reputation might take a hit because of it.
If someone sets up a business much further away, it might be less likely to harm your brand. However, it still could, especially with so much done online these days. Even if the other business operates in a different realm, there is a possibility it could create confusion that harms your business.
It can also be harmful to the economy
Legitimate businesses create employment and pay taxes. Parties that make money by stealing others’ IP often contribute less in these areas. They might use cheap overseas labor or up-scaled processes that reduce the number of staff needed. The company might not pay taxes here, or if it does, it might contribute less because those copied items are cheaper. The theft of IP can also discourage innovation.
Companies and individuals may decide there is no point in putting resources and effort into innovation if someone will just come along and steal it. Learning about your legal options is always worthwhile if someone uses your IP without your consent.