Panelist Gives FriendFinder Networks a Win in Cybersquatting Case

CAMPBELL, CA—Top dating site FriendFinder Networks Inc. (FFN), which also operates AdultFriendFinder.com, had filed a complaint against a cyber-squatter named Marcus Meikle for infringement of its trademarked name, and the company can now claim victory in that action. A ruling by a panel member of the US Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) required Meikle to terminate his registration of the domain name youfriendfinder.com and transfer it to FFN. The dispute began when Meikle refused to transfer the domain name to FFN following his receipt of a cease and desist letter. FFN subsequently filed a Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (“UDRP”) case against Meikle. Subsequently, a panelist entered the order in FFN’s favor. In entering the order, the panelist, Terry F. Peppard, found that the Meikle's domain names were registered and used in bad faith, that the names were causing confusion among consumers, and that Meikle had had no rights or legitimate interests in the domain names. Meikle’s use infringed upon the rights of FFN in its registered trademarks. This latest victory underscores FFN's commitment and corporate policy of enforcing its trademark and intellectual property rights on a global basis. The award-winning FriendFinder Networks Inc. is a leading internet-based social networking and multimedia entertainment company. Some of its notable websites include Cams.com, AdultFriendFinder.com, FriendFinder.com, AsiaFriendFinder.com and ALT.com. For more information, visit FFN.com.