Amazon IP Claims: How to Handle Intellectual Property Complaints
In today’s market, counterfeiting and intellectual property (IP) violations are growing concerns. This is understandable—brands work hard to create their products and naturally want to protect them.
Receiving an IP complaint from Amazon can be intimidating, but it shouldn’t discourage you from exploring the lucrative world of Amazon FBA.
The key to avoiding these issues is equipping yourself with the right knowledge and tools to steer clear of products that may lead to an IP dispute.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Amazon IP claims and how to handle them effectively. So, let’s get started!
Before we dive in, here’s an important disclaimer: I’m not a lawyer, and this article is based on my experience as an Amazon seller. Always consult a legal professional for official advice.
What Is Intellectual Property?
Investopedia defines Intellectual Property (IP) as “a broad categorical description for the set of intangible assets owned and legally protected by a company or individual from outside use or implementation without consent.” In simple terms, IP refers to creations that legally belong to a person or business.
The three most common types of IP protection include:
- Trademarks – Protect brand names, logos, and symbols.
- Patents – Cover unique inventions and designs.
- Copyright – Safeguards original works like books, music, and artwork.
Brands invest heavily in their intellectual property, making it one of their most valuable assets. That’s why they aggressively protect it.
What Is an IP Alert or Complaint on Amazon?
It’s important to understand that reselling legally purchased products on Amazon is not illegal. Otherwise, business models like Online Arbitrage (OA) and Retail Arbitrage (RA) wouldn’t exist.
However, Amazon has its own rules. If a brand files an IP complaint against you, you must respond accordingly.
Technically, you could challenge an IP complaint if you have the right to sell the product. However, most brands will defend their claim, making it easier to remove the listing and avoid further trouble.
Since Amazon controls the marketplace, sellers must comply with its terms of service. Ignoring a valid IP complaint can lead to your account being suspended or permanently banned.
Many brands file IP claims to combat counterfeiting, while others simply want to maintain exclusivity over their products.
How Do You Verify an Amazon IP Complaint?
You may receive messages claiming that you’re infringing on a brand’s IP. The first time this happens, it can be unsettling.
However, I never respond to these messages because anyone can send them. There’s no way to confirm if they actually come from the brand.
A legitimate IP claim must be filed through Amazon, not via buyer messages.
If a brand files an official complaint, you’ll receive an email directly from Amazon and a notification in Seller Central under Performance Notifications.
How to Respond to an Amazon IP Complaint?
When you receive an IP complaint, the notice will include contact details for the complainant, usually a representative of the brand.
It’s best to reply politely, asking for more details if they haven’t specified the basis of the complaint.
Always take these complaints seriously and communicate professionally with both Amazon and the brand.
If you legally purchased the product, provide the brand with proof of purchase (invoices or receipts). There’s no guarantee they’ll retract the claim, but it’s worth trying.
You should also inform Amazon about the steps you’ve taken and provide them with copies of your purchase receipts.
Most importantly, respond promptly and professionally to any IP complaints to resolve them as quickly as possible.
How to Prevent Amazon IP Complaints?
To reduce your risk, you should be cautious when sourcing products. While there are no foolproof methods, here are some warning signs:
- The brand is the sole seller of the product on Amazon – This suggests they strictly control their distribution and don’t allow third-party sellers.
- Few third-party sellers, but with thousands of reviews – This could indicate an exclusive agreement with the brand, making it difficult for new sellers to enter the market.
To be extra cautious, consider using an IP claim database like the IP Alert Chrome Extension (which I’ll cover in detail below).
Brands That Frequently File IP Claims
Searching the web for brands known to file IP claims is time-consuming, and the information may be outdated.
Before listing products, it’s also important to differentiate between an IP Claim and an Amazon Brand Restriction—they are not the same!
To help you get started, here are some brands that frequently file IP claims:
- Argan Magic
- Altec Lansing
- Amway
- Apple
- Bodum
- Britax
- Cook With Color
- Discover Toys
- FAO Schwarz Toys
- GoPro
- Sharper Image
- Luseta
- Lily’s Baking Chocolate
- NorthFace
- Mixed Chicks
- Supergoop
- Vital Performance Supplements
This is just a small fraction of the brands that actively protect their IP. To stay ahead, tools like IP Alert can help identify risk-prone brands in real time.
IP Alert Chrome Extension – Your Ultimate IP Protection Tool
As a long-time Amazon seller, IP Alert Chrome Extension is here to help sellers avoid troublesome brands.
Here’s what makes IP Alert the best tool for detecting Amazon IP claims:
- Crowdsourced Information – Data is submitted by real Amazon sellers and verified before being added to our database.
- Mobile Compatibility – Works on mobile, making it ideal for retail arbitrage sellers.
- Offline Database – Updates automatically without requiring manual downloads.
- Affordable Pricing – Budget-friendly lifetime and annual plans.
- Risk-Free Guarantee – If you’re not satisfied, we offer refunds with no hassle.
How Does IP Alert Work?
We designed the extension to be as simple and efficient as possible.
Once installed, visit any product page on Amazon.com. If the brand is known for filing IP claims, you’ll receive two alerts:
- A pop-up warning that’s hard to miss.
- A pulsating red siren next to the brand name on the product page
It’s an easy, effective way to protect yourself from potential IP disputes before listing a product.
Final Thoughts on Amazon IP Complaints
Always take IP complaints seriously, but don’t panic!
The best approach is prevention—avoid sourcing products that are known to trigger IP issues. The #1 tool for this is IP Alert, which helps minimize risks by flagging problematic brands.
No tool can guarantee that a brand won’t file a claim, but thorough research can significantly reduce the chances of an issue arising. The last thing you want is a warehouse full of unsellable inventory due to an unexpected IP complaint.
Thanks for reading!
