Selling on Amazon provides great opportunities, but it also comes with strict rules. Among the most critical areas Amazon monitors is intellectual property (IP) rights. As a seller, failure to understand Amazon’s Intellectual Property Policies can lead to IP complaints, product delistings, or worse, account suspension.
In this blog, we’ll break down what Amazon expects from sellers, what common IP violations look like, and how to protect your account from being shut down due to unintentional infringement.
Amazon’s Intellectual Property (IP) policies are designed to protect the rights of brand owners, content creators, and product developers. The platform prohibits any activity that infringes on:
Violating these policies—intentionally or not—can result in listing removal or account suspension.
Most Amazon IP complaints happen when:
Even if you believe you’re acting legally, Amazon often sides with the complainant to avoid liability, so it’s up to you to be proactive in protecting your listings.
An IP complaint doesn’t just affect one product—it can threaten your entire business. Here’s what can happen:
Preventing these issues is far easier than appealing after the damage is done.
Trademarks protect brand names, logos, and slogans. Common violations include:
Tip: Always check the USPTO database or use Amazon’s IP Accelerator Program to ensure you’re not infringing trademarks.
Copyright protects original content, such as:
Copying a brand’s media from their website or using copyrighted material without permission can lead to takedowns.
Tip: Only use content you create yourself or have written permission to use. Stock images and public domain content are safer alternatives.
Patents protect unique inventions and designs. Patent violations are more technical and often involve:
Tip: If you’re sourcing custom-designed products from manufacturers, conduct a patent search or consult an IP attorney to avoid future issues.
While reselling is legal in most cases (thanks to the First Sale Doctrine), some brands enforce distribution agreements and don’t want products sold on Amazon.
Brands enrolled in Amazon’s Brand Registry can file IP complaints against resellers, even if the products are genuine.
Tip: If you resell branded items, make sure you retain invoices and authorization letters from reputable distributors.
Work with manufacturers and wholesalers who can provide:
Use your images, descriptions, and videos. Avoid copying text or media from other Amazon listings or brand websites.
If you own your brand, enrolling in Amazon Brand Registry gives you tools to:
If you’re ever accused of IP infringement, Amazon may ask for:
Having this information ready can help you respond quickly and avoid account suspension.
Regularly check your Account Health Dashboard for any IP complaints or performance notifications. Respond to them immediately to avoid escalation.
If Amazon flags your listing or account, take the following steps:
Contact the Rights Owner
Sometimes, resolving the issue directly with the rights holder can lead to them withdrawing the complaint.
Amazon takes intellectual property very seriously. Even one violation can impact your listings, and repeated complaints can lead to full account suspension. The best way to stay safe is to understand and follow Amazon’s Intellectual Property Policies, avoid shortcuts, and keep proper documentation.
At Amazon Appeal Pro, we specialize in writing strong appeals and navigating Amazon’s IP policies to protect your account. Don’t leave your Amazon business to chance.
Contact Amazon Appeal Pro today to resolve IP complaints and prevent future suspensions.
Would you like a downloadable version of this guide or a checklist for IP compliance on Amazon? Let me know, and I’ll create one for you!
