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Facebook could be about to open up a huge can of worms for everyone.
Facebook has decided to sue a company that is a social networking site specifically designed for teachers. Why? Because the site is called Teachbook.
Facebook claims that Teachbook is ripping off the Facebook name in order to ride on some of Facebook’s popularity. They want the company to change the website name to something that doesn’t use the word “book.” They believe that new users will become confused as to which site is the professional community for teachers and which is the real Facebook. This lawsuit, Facebook claims, is an effort to protect their brand and their users.
Teachbook is designed to help teachers connect with colleagues, parents, and administrators. Teachers can create lesson plans, instructional videos, and other tools they can later use in their classroom. They can also connect with other teachers for help planning lessons and teachers can even create online instructional modules and courses. There is also a Gradebook function where teachers are able to manage their students grades. They can even communicate securely with parents through the Gradebook, an events calendar, homework space, and a classroom newsletter. All of these sound like wonderful tools for teachers and parents to team up in order to better educate children.
Facebook doesn’t want to just claim the word “book.” They also wish to claim “face.” This could prove to be trouble for any company that might use “book” or “face” in their names. Companies such as FaceCash could be in for a great deal of trouble, just like Teachbook.
If Facebook wins the lawsuit, the ramifications could be serious. For example, if Facebook succeeds in claiming “face” and “book” then no one can use either of the terms without permission. Other companies could soon follow Facebook’s example. For example, McDonald’s could claim “big” or “mac.” And it could continue to escalate. This case is one that all businesses should pay attention to, just in case the name you chose suddenly can get you sued.