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We currently buy and sell products on ebay for products that are compatible for products like chargers, cables, cases, etc. You can see our products at http://stores.ebay.com/iCandyCords?_rdc=1 We buy these products through www.aliexpress.com a Alibaba brand.I am worried we might be breaking the law or might need to put some kind of disclaimer up with our listings. Also are we able to offer these products on a regular website and what protocol would need to be followed?
Optional Information: State/Country relating to question: United States
Hello,
Can you tell me exactly in what area you think you might be breaking the law? Do you change the packaging and put your own name on the articles? Or something else?
I just am worried that selling products that can be compatible with Apple products might be against the law. We disclaim they are generic products and that they work with specific models. These products are from China and I don't believe to be licensed or registered as approved "Apple" products.I just want make sure I prevent any lawsuits from selling these products and if there is any legalise I need to add to my listings or websites.
From what you're telling me you are doing nothing wrong. It is perfectly acceptable to use the name Apple in that context, as long as you make it clear in your wording that they are generic (whatever name you use) and not Apple products. The trouble for people comes when they try to "hint" that it's a specific brand when it is not. It is much the same as when you buy generic vacuum cleaner bags at the store that list they will fit "Hoover" "Eureka", etc. Another problem people get into when they make up a name that sounds like it might be the established brand to "fool" people.
But, It sounds like your business is perfectly acceptable and legal. If you have any follow up questions or want to discuss this further, feel free to do so. Good luck!
Experience: 15+ years of practice, including intellectual property--primarily copyright law