unauthorized use

Definition

Unauthorized use means someone used your property, intellectual property, or business assets without getting your permission first. This can apply to physical property like equipment or vehicles, but small business owners most often encounter it when someone uses their logo, brand name, photos, or written content without asking.

Example

A competitor copies your product photos directly from your website and posts them on their own store, which counts as unauthorized use of your copyrighted images.

Watch Out

If you discover unauthorized use of your business assets, act quickly because waiting too long to object can sometimes weaken your legal right to stop it.

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This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.