What steps can I take to protect my brand's logo and prevent others from using it without my permission?

To protect your brand's logo and prevent others from using it without your permission, there are several steps you can take:

1. Register your logo as a trademark: Registering your logo as a trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is the best way to protect your intellectual property rights. A registered trademark provides you with exclusive rights to use the logo in commerce and allows you to prevent others from using a similar mark. You can file your application online at the USPTO website.
2. Monitor unauthorized use of your logo: It is important to actively monitor the use of your logo to ensure that others are not using it without your permission. This can be done by conducting regular online searches and contacting infringers to request that they cease their use of your logo. You can also hire a trademark attorney to monitor and enforce your trademark rights on your behalf.
3. Use a trademark notice: Using the ® symbol with your logo serves as notice to others that your logo is a registered trademark and that you have exclusive rights to use it in commerce.
4. Protect your logo in other countries: If you plan to do business in other countries, it is important to register your trademark in those countries to protect your intellectual property rights there.
5. Consider copyright protection: In addition to trademark protection, your logo may also be eligible for copyright protection. Copyright protection can prevent others from copying your logo or creating derivative works based on it.

It is important to note that there may be limitations or exceptions to the advice given above, and it is always best to seek the advice of a licensed attorney for specific legal advice. Additionally, if someone is using your logo without your permission, you may need to take legal action to stop them. This may include sending a cease and desist letter or filing a lawsuit for trademark infringement.