What is a trademark and how is it different from copyright?
A trademark is a word, slogan, symbol, or design used to distinguish one person’s or company’s products or services from others. It protects consumers from confusion regarding who provides or endorses a specific service.
Copyright, on the other hand, protects original creative expression—not ideas, but how those ideas are written or created.
In the context of Character.AI, this includes:
-
Character descriptions and backstories
(e.g., detailed bios, lore, or narrative text copied from books, shows, or games) -
Dialogue and writing style when it’s copied or closely replicated
(e.g., reproducing scripts, scenes, or distinctive written content) -
Images, audio, or other media used in characters
(e.g., copyrighted profile images, voice clips, or assets) -
Structured or unique creative content
(e.g., specific storylines, world-building elements)
When does using a trademark violate character.ai policy?
It is a violation if you use a trademark without permission in a way that:
- Misleads or confuses others about your identity or brand.
- Suggests an affiliation, sponsorship, or endorsement by the trademark owner.
- Implies your content was created by the trademark owner or represents their views.
What is NOT considered a violation?
You are generally safe if you are:
- Making a simple reference (e.g., "I love playing Uno!").
- Registering a username that happens to be a trademark but is used in an unrelated context (e.g., a plumbing trademark used for a gaming character).
- Using the mark in a way that clearly distinguishes you from the owner.
- Creating a parody or fan character (see "Parody Requirements" below).
Can I create parody or fan characters?
Yes, provided they meet these two requirements:
- The description clearly states the character/scenario is not affiliated (using words like "parody," "fan," or "unofficial").
- The name is not the exact trademark alone (it should include words like "Fan of [Name]" or "[Name] Parody").
How do I report a trademark violation?
If you are the owner or an authorized representative, please submit a ticket here and provide the requested information under “Trademark Takedown Request”. You can also send an email to support@character.ai with:
For the full list of required information and what to expect after filing, please refer to our Trademark Policy.
Will character.ai resolve my legal dispute?
No. Character.ai does not act as an arbitrator. We conduct limited investigations for clear cases of commercial infringement. If we refuse to take action, the dispute must be resolved directly between the trademark owner and the account holder.
What happens after a report is filed?
- Character.ai confirms the report is complete.
- We determine if a violation occurred.
- If action is taken, the affected account holder may be notified and given an opportunity to respond. Any response received will be reviewed in accordance with the applicable Trademark policy.