Are there any special rules for unfair competition related to the internet?
Yes, there are special rules related to unfair competition related to the internet in Washington. Unfair competition law in Washington prohibits businesses from using false advertising or statements to gain an advantage in the marketplace. This includes advertising that misleads or deceives consumers and may include false or misleading descriptions of products or services, price comparisons, misleading identification of another’s product, or making false or unsubstantiated claims about a competitor’s product or services. In addition to traditional false advertising, Washington has special rules related to unfair competition on the internet. This includes any false or misleading advertising, comparisons, or claims that are made on a website, in emails, on social media, or any other form of digital communication. It also includes any false or deceptive offers made online, such as sweepstakes or contest offers. Washington also prohibits any activity that is designed to disrupt or interfere with another’s business or website. This includes registering domain names that are similar to another’s domain name, in order to drive away customers, or maliciously attempting to interfere with another’s web hosting or website. It also includes any unfair or deceptive practices that are used to obtain confidential information about another’s business or customers. Finally, Washington has rules that prohibit businesses from using any unfair or deceptive tactics to create a false market or create the impression that a product or service is in high demand in order to increase the price. It also prohibits businesses from using any deceptive practices to manipulate search engine results and deceive customers into believing that their product is the most popular choice.
Related FAQs
What is unfair competition law?What is the purpose of the Communications Decency Act?
What are the elements of a tortious interference with contractual relations claim?
What is the purpose of the Anti-Cybersquatting Consumer Protection Act?
What is the Publicity Rights Act?
What is the definition of “likelihood of confusion” in trademark infringement?
Are there any international laws governing unfair competition?
What is the scope of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA)?
What is the doctrine of unjust enrichment?
What is the difference between unfair competition and antitrust law?
Related Blog Posts
What Is Unfair Competition Law and How Can It Protect Your Business? - July 31, 2023Understanding Unfair Competition Law: What You Need to Know - August 7, 2023
Unfair Competition Law: Key Concepts and Terminology - August 14, 2023
The Basics of Unfair Competition Law for Business Owners - August 21, 2023
How to Recognize and Respond to Unfair Competition Practices - August 28, 2023