Financial compliance specialists, B-Compliant, are urging advisory firms to consider trademarking their name to prevent targeted attacks by claims management companies (CMCs).
The Manchester-based consultants are warning firms that DB claims are becoming the focus of targeted advertising campaigns by CMCs, using company names to attract clients.
B-Compliant director, Vicky Pearce, said: “We are aware of one firm that has been the subject of a Google ad words campaign by a CMC, following an initial DB claim. By using the firm’s trading name to draw in further clients, a downward spiral begins that results in many more claims being issued against the target.”
Trademarking a company name allows a firm to protect its brand and prevent others benefiting from it or causing reputational damage. Google has a clear policy preventing advertisers from using trademarks without consent and will launch an investigation into any valid complaint.
Vicky added: “Trademarking is not the easiest process, but it is worth the time and effort to prevent targeted attacks of this nature. Once it is done, if you become aware of a CMC or other entity using your brand name on Google without permission, the search engine will be forced to remove the advert.”
B-Compliant serves the needs of small and medium-sized advisory firms, investment management companies and discretionary fund managers, providing advice and guidance to those who do not have the skills internally. For more information about its bespoke financial compliance services, telephone (0161) 521 8641, visit www.b-compliant.co.uk or follow the firm on Twitter, @b_compliant.
