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ARTICLE · 19 MAY 2014

Counterfeit Certification Marks: How To Certify That The "Certified" Is Certified

Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C.
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We have all seen or heard about them without, perhaps, knowing what they were or for what they stand.

United StatesConsumer Protection
Susan Neuberger Weller
Susan Neuberger Weller
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We have all seen or heard about them without, perhaps, knowing what they were or for what they stand: the GOOD HOUSEKEEPING seal of approval, UL certified, ENERGY STAR rated, GROWN IN IDAHO potatoes,  HARRIS TWEED, and many, many more. They are called certification marks and they fall within the province of trademark law. Certification marks are words, slogans and/or logos licensed by their owners to be used on products or in connection with the advertising of services offered by third parties which meet standards set by the certification mark owner. Their purpose is to inform the public that the products or services certified meet certain minimum quality standards established by the owner/certifier, to ensure a higher level of consumer protection and safety.

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