What is trademark surveillance?

Photo of Jan Buza

Written by Jan Buza

Co-founder of Trama

Trademark surveillance, also called trademark monitoring or trademark watching, is an ongoing practice of tracking other subjects on the market to prevent trademark infringement.

When registering a trademark, the owner gains rights for the exclusive use of the mark in commerce. The trademark itself offers a basis for legal enforcement in cases of infringement. However, the burden of tracking the infringement still mostly falls onto the owner.

Trademark surveillance is a form of continuous protection, ensuring the trademark holder will not only own the rights but also know when someone breaches them.

One possible infringement threat is posed by new trademark applications similar to the owner's brand. Here, trademark surveillance services help by monitoring trademark databases and notifying the owner of similar applications. The owner can then raise an opposition against the other applicants.

Related articles

Advice icon

Haven't found what you are looking for?

Our team of experienced trademark attorneys is here to help you! Simply send us an email outlining your request and we'll be happy to assist you.