What is palming off? Simple Definition & Meaning

Definition of palming off

Definition: Palming off, also known as passing off, is when someone falsely represents their own product as someone else's in order to deceive potential buyers. This is considered unfair competition and can be legally actionable. It may also be considered trademark infringement.

Example: A company creates a new energy drink and gives it a name and logo that is very similar to a popular energy drink already on the market. They then market and sell their drink using the similar name and logo, hoping that consumers will mistake it for the popular brand and buy it instead. This is an example of palming off or passing off.

Explanation: In this example, the company is trying to deceive consumers into thinking that their product is the popular brand, which is unfair to both the consumers and the original brand. This is why palming off is considered illegal and can result in legal action being taken against the offending party.

Simple Definition

Palming off, also known as passing off, is when someone tries to trick people into thinking their product is made by someone else. This is not allowed and is against the law. It is like pretending to be someone else to get attention or to sell something. It is also called misrepresentation of source. If someone does this, they can get in trouble and be sued for unfair competition or trademark infringement. Reverse passing off is when someone tries to make it seem like someone else's product is actually their own. This is also not allowed and is against the law.

Legal Definitions - palming off

Definition of palming off

Simple Definition