I can't believe somebody can own the words "Crack the Code" and sue you for ...

I can't believe somebody can own the words "Crack the Code" and sue you for ...

Folks, this is unbelievable, to me. I got a stern "warning" from some British company (Rasprodz) because we did a "Crack the Code" contest in October. Big deal, right? Would you BELIEVE they own a US Copyright on use of the term for print or broadcast media?

Excuse me? NeverMIND that our contest didn't at all resemble what they're hawking, which is, in essence, a radio contest concept that's been around for DECADES; it just consumes my MIND with fire that they can OWN the use of the term, in general!

Is there firm legal footing for this sort of drivel? And if so, how on earth do you go about even DOING another promotion without sweating about some company far off in the corner owning a phrase like "minute to win it" or "call now and win?"

By the way, I'd offer my suggestion not to even inquire about their product. Not only do they just, basically charge you for use of their concept; it's not even an insurance/sweepstakes gimmick. They just, well, own the phrase! Google them and see for yourself...better yet, here are the youtube links they thrust at me, when then trying to pitch their product after their legal warning...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJRanQzwby0


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scdE9IT9rnE


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdOsxunrUH0


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=od563yf4-vM


Do YOU see any breaking of the mold, contest-wise? Ridiculous.

Re: I can't believe somebody can own the words "Crack the Code" and sue you for ...

Hey, a ton of celebrities can't use their names for their websites, cause someone beat them to it, and now they are trying sell them back their own name. Only In America Baby, Only in America.