Facebook's launch of vanity URLs

I thought you would be interested to know about Facebook's launch of “vanity URLs” at 12:01am EST (5:01am BST) on Saturday 13 June 2009.
Essentially, this will allow users to create usernames for personalised web addresses or URLs within the Facebook domain.

This means that there is a risk of a new form of trade mark infringement, cybersquatting and brand abuse.
Facebook will allow users to select username linked URLs on a first come first served basis. Also, usernames will be available to anyone with a Facebook profile or a Facebook page with more than 1,000 fans.

Facebook are apparently aware of the potential problems this may cause and are allowing trade mark owners the opportunity to request in advance that marks should not be used as a Facebook username at the following URL: http://www.facebook.com/help/contact.php?show_form=username_rights.
If you have a registered trade mark and don't wish others to use it as a Facebook username you should notify Facebook of it through this link.

This posr is Courtesy of Alex Chapman

Contact Sara at Game Guard: sara@gnw-eg.com for additional information or to get in touch with Alex.

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