OpenAI says use of GPT in domain name is trademark violation

OpenAI is now threatening to sue websites using GPT in their brand or domain names for trademark infringement.

OpenAI email on the use of GPT in domain name

According to an email screenshot shared by a user who owns a domain with the term GPT, OpenAI through Brandshield is asking users to cease and desist from using the term GPT in their domain names, site titles, or subtitles as it goes against their brand guidelines.

In a threatening email, BrandShield provides this WIPO link to prove that GPT is a registered trademark of OpenAI.

OpenAI recently updated its brand guidelines to indicate that they don’t tolerate the use of GPT in brand, and product names. For example GPTChat, GPTblog, BusinessGPT, etc. You are only allowed to indicate that the services you offer are powered by ChatGPT for example, site.com is Powered by GPT, or site.com is powered by ChatGPT API.

Consequences of ignoring the email

If your attorney has advised you to dismiss the email then be aware of other consequences. OpenAI can ban or block you from using its APIs. It is part of the terms of services that you accepted when signing up to use its API.  However, if your website content or services do not rely on OpenAI API, then you have a chance to push back.

The worst that can happen is that if you are using a hosting company based in the US, OpenAI can file a domain takedown for trademark infringement. Most registrars will quickly comply with takedown requests from big tech companies and governments involving intellectual property infringement. The only option you will have left is to fight it in court.

To avoid putting your platform at risk, it is advisable to rebrand the earliest. Shutdown the affected website and 301 redirect it to the new one to retain the SEO benefits.