MasterCard Rules (PDF)

Chapter 4 Trademarks and Service Marks
This chapter contains information about use of the Marks and competing marks.
4.1 Right to Use the Marks............................................................................................................. 4-1
4.1.1 Licenses........................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.1.2 Protection and Registration of the Marks ........................................................................ 4-1
4.1.2.1 Registration of a Card Face Design ........................................................................ 4-2
4.1.3 Misuse of a Mark............................................................................................................. 4-2
4.2 General Rules for Use of the Mark........................................................................................... 4-2
4.2.1 Use of the Marks ............................................................................................................. 4-2
4.2.2 Compliance ..................................................................................................................... 4-3
4.2.3 Required Use................................................................................................................... 4-3
4.2.4 Review of Solicitations .................................................................................................... 4-3
4.2.4.1 Linked Card Programs ............................................................................................ 4-3
4.2.5 Signage System................................................................................................................ 4-3
4.2.6 Particular Use of a Mark.................................................................................................. 4-4
4.2.6.1 Generic Use............................................................................................................ 4-4
4.2.6.2 Use of Modifiers ..................................................................................................... 4-4
4.2.6.3 Use on Stationery ................................................................................................... 4-4
4.2.6.4 Use on Non-Licensed Goods.................................................................................. 4-4
4.2.6.5 Use on Checks ....................................................................................................... 4-4
4.2.6.6 Use on Cards .......................................................................................................... 4-4
4.2.7 Use of the MasterCard Word Mark .................................................................................. 4-5
4.2.7.1 Use or Registration of “Master” Terminology ......................................................... 4-5
4.2.7.2 Use of MasterCard in a Corporate, Business or Domain Name.............................. 4-5
4.2.7.3 Use of MasterCard in Text ...................................................................................... 4-5
4.2.7.4 Registration Notice ................................................................................................. 4-5
4.2.7.5 Program Names ...................................................................................................... 4-6
4.2.8 Use of the Interlocking Circles Device............................................................................ 4-6
4.2.8.1 Reproduction Standards ......................................................................................... 4-6
4.2.8.2 Variations Prohibited .............................................................................................. 4-6
4.2.8.3 Use or Registration of Similar Logos, Designs, and Names .................................... 4-6
4.2.9 Use of Multiple Brand Marks........................................................................................... 4-6
4.2.10 Use of the Card Face Design......................................................................................... 4-7
4.2.10.1 In Advertising and Marketing Material.................................................................. 4-7
4.2.10.2 In Merchant Advertising ....................................................................................... 4-8
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MasterCard Rules • 12 December 2012 4-i