Sam Joseph Karam, the owner of Customized Designs, a U.S.-based apparel company selling on platforms like Etsy, was surprised when he received an email from Etsy informing him that 11 of his T-shirt designs featuring the term “bruh” were removed for trademark infringement. This was unusual as it was more listings than he normally sees taken down at once, catching his attention immediately.
The removal of his designs led to the loss of his Star Seller badge on Etsy, impacting his sales significantly. The trademark violation was reported by Malik Yawar Abbas, who holds the Canadian trademark for the term “bruh.” Karam and several other Etsy sellers shared similar experiences of having their listings removed due to complaints by Abbas.
Karam accused Abbas of “trademark squatting,” suggesting that Abbas aims to profit by licensing the term rather than producing any products himself. Legal experts emphasize the need for platforms and the legal system to address such trademark practices to prevent misuse.
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) issued a trademark for “bruh” in July 2025, enabling its use in selling various clothing items. Abbas also obtained a separate trademark for the word in connection with advertising restaurant services. Despite questions about the trademark, CIPO stated that each application is reviewed individually.
Abbas’ website showcases the protection of the “bruh” trademark and offers licensing options for others to use the term. Karam expressed dismay at the demand for $1,000 from Abbas to withdraw the complaint, indicating what he believes is an act of bad faith.
Considering legal action to challenge the trademark, Karam is exploring options to invalidate it based on bad faith. In Canada, trademark laws introduced in 2019 allow for the cancellation of trademarks filed in bad faith, although the application of this provision remains relatively untested.
While Abbas defends his trademark as a legitimate commercial brand, critics argue that the enforcement of the trademark may constitute bad faith. The dispute raises questions about the boundaries of trademark ownership and the challenges faced by small businesses against trademark claims.
Experts suggest that the use of the term “bruh” on clothing may not necessarily infringe on the trademark, as trademarks are intended to distinguish brands rather than claim ownership of common words or phrases. The lack of an appeal process on Etsy for such takedowns poses challenges for sellers caught in trademark disputes.
The case highlights the need for clearer regulations to address trademark issues and protect businesses from potential trademark abuses. Strengthening the oversight of trademark applications and providing mechanisms for challenging questionable trademarks could help prevent similar situations in the future.