Can You Trademark a Hashtag?

Believe it or not, yes, you can trademark a hashtag. Hashtags are being used by everyone and taking the Internet by storm. And now companies and brands are jumping on the hashtag bandwagon and using them as a marketing tool. Trademarking a hashtag can seem silly, but it is actually a way to protect your company and prevent competing companies from using the same hashtag for marketing.
The Requirements to Trademark a Hashtag

First off, what is a hashtag? It started out on Twitter and is a word or phrase that follows the hash sign, #. If used enough, it catches on and becomes trendy. Usually hashtags are created to relate to an event, specific issue, product, news or topic. A trademark is a form of property and a hashtag must prove that it serves a purpose for the owner’s goods and services. It is a good idea to consult with a Scottsdale trademark lawyer to get more information.

The Trademark Must Be Evaluated

Anyone can create a hashtag that can be registered as a trademark, but it must be proved to be useful to the company. By proving that your hashtag will serve a purpose for your company and potentially help with your sales, then you should be able to trademark your hashtag.

Hashtags are Beneficial for Marketing Especially When Trademarked

Hashtags are a useful way for companies to reach their audience. Since hashtags are trendy and are a different way to be able to market your brand to your audience, it could make you stand out against your competitors. But you want to make sure you consider everything, including all of the pros and cons to trademarking a hashtag. If it will leverage your business, then it will be worth it.