In a recent case against Google, the claimants argued that Google had collected private information about their internet usage via their Apple Safari internet browser.
In Ryanair Ltd v PR Aviation BV, the CJEU ruled that where a database is not protected by copyright under the Directive (EC) 96/9, the author of the database is not restricted from laying down contractual limitations on its use by third parties.
Brand owners should ensure new brand names are original and capable of indicating the trade origin of the goods or services they provide, or they may find they have little, if any, protection.