Arent Fox Files Lawsuit Protecting Diesel Against Cybersquatting Websites Selling Counterfeit Goods

Washington, DC – On June 24, Arent Fox LLP filed suit on behalf of Italian clothing company Diesel S.p.A. against 83 websites that are cybersquatting and selling counterfeit products appearing to carry the internationally recognized label. By using the company's trademark in the domain name, the websites are creating the false impression they are authorized to sell genuine Diesel goods. Already, the sites have sold thousands of counterfeit reproductions of Diesel's high quality products.

Fashion Law: Luxury Goods, Designer Brands & Retail leader Anthony V. Lupo is representing Diesel in the litigation that was filed in US District Court for the Southern District of New York. Mr. Lupo leads a group from Arent Fox that includes Complex Litigation partners David N. Wynn and Randall A. Brater and associates Leah C. Montesano and Emily Baver Slavin.

"This action is designed to stop the unlawful use of Diesel trademarks and protect the company's loyal customers from being targeted by counterfeit artists," said Mr. Lupo. "These websites damage Diesel's reputation, while making available goods that lack the company's trademark quality and craftsmanship."

Diesel has previously taken strong steps to fight against cybersquatting as part of a global initiative that combats counterfeit products. In 2013, the company started an online brand protection program that has resulted in roughly 120 infringing sites being taken down, with more than 1,000 sellers blocked and a total of about 400,000 items removed.

Arent Fox's Fashion Law: Luxury Goods, Designer Brands & Retail group is widely recognized as one of the preeminent fashion law practices in the country, with a focus on advertising, promotions, and data protection. The firm serves as general counsel for a number of high-end European fashion and luxury goods companies handling corporate, real estate, employment, class action, national and global distribution, fulfillment, and California-specific litigation, including Prop 65, wage and hour, and false claims and unfair competition.