MzDeal Intellectual Property (IP) Enforcement Policy

The MzDeal Intellectual Property Enforcement Policy explains how MzDeal protects copyrights, trademarks, brand rights, and other intellectual property. It applies to all users, sellers, businesses, brands, and third parties using the MzDeal platform.

MzDeal is committed to respecting IP laws in Mozambique and internationally, and maintaining a marketplace free from counterfeit, stolen, or unauthorized products.

1. Purpose of This Policy

This policy ensures that:

Rights holders can protect their intellectual property

Users do not upload or sell infringing content

MzDeal removes counterfeit or unauthorized items

Sellers respect brand ownership and licensing rules

Buyers are protected from fake goods and misleading listings

2. What Counts as Intellectual Property?

MzDeal protects the following IP categories:

2.1 Copyrights

Original images

Descriptions and text

Logos

Creative materials

2.2 Trademarks

Brand names

Logos

Product names

2.3 Patents & Industrial Designs

Unique product designs

Technology-based items

2.4 Trade Secrets & Confidential Information

Brand materials not authorized for public use

3. Prohibited IP-Infringing Activities

Users and sellers are strictly prohibited from:

Selling counterfeit or replica products

Using brand names they are not authorized to sell

Uploading copyrighted images taken from other websites

Misusing well-known trademarks to boost visibility

Posting software, media, or digital goods without license

Copying photos or descriptions from other sellers

Using watermarked or edited brand materials without permission

Violations may lead to removal, bans, and legal consequences.

4. Counterfeit Goods Policy

MzDeal has Zero Tolerance for counterfeit items.

Counterfeit items include:

Fake branded shoes, clothes, electronics, or accessories

Copies of designer products

Products labeled as “original” when they are not

Any item using a brand logo without authorization

MzDeal may request:

Proof of purchase

Import documents

Brand authorization letters

If proof is not provided, the listing will be removed.

5. Use of Images, Videos, and Descriptions

All listing content must be:

Created by the seller, OR

Used with proper rights or permission

The following are not allowed:

Downloaded images from Google

Photos belonging to other sellers

Stock images without rights

Brand-owned media unless authorized

MzDeal may require real photos of the item.

6. Reporting Intellectual Property Violations

Rights holders can report IP violations through:

Email: [email protected]

In-app report tool (Report Listing)

Reports must include:

Proof of IP ownership (certificate, trademark registration, etc.)

URLs or screenshots of the infringing content

Contact details of the rights holder

MzDeal will review the report within 3–7 business days.

7. Enforcement Actions

MzDeal may take the following actions for IP violations:

Immediate removal of infringing listings

Account warnings

Temporary posting restrictions

Permanent account ban for repeated violations

Confiscation of wallet balances linked to fraudulent sales

Reporting to legal authorities if applicable

Multiple violations result in permanent removal from the platform.

8. Seller Responsibilities

Sellers must:

Ensure all products are genuine and legally owned

Have documentation proving authenticity when needed

Respect brand licensing rules

Not mislead buyers with fake brand claims

Remove or update listings immediately when requested by MzDeal

MzDeal may randomly inspect:

Seller items

Receipts

Import records

Product packaging

9. Brand Owner Tools & Partnerships

MzDeal supports brands and rights holders through:

Dedicated IP support channel

Fast takedown tools

Brand verification programs

Partnership programs for authentic product promotion

Brands may request:

Priority removal of counterfeit items

Official brand pages

Blocklists for unauthorized sellers

10. Appeals Process for Removed Listings

Sellers who believe their listing was mistakenly removed can request a review.

The seller must submit:

Proof of authenticity

Photos of the actual item

Product receipts or invoices

Import or ownership documentation

MzDeal may restore the listing if sufficient proof is provided.

11. Off-Platform Sales Using Protected Brands

Users may not:

Use MzDeal to promote fake branded goods

Redirect users off-platform to avoid detection

Use brand names improperly in chat messages

MzDeal monitors conversations for potential IP issues.

12. Legal Disclosures and Cooperation

MzDeal may share information with:

Mozambique authorities

Brand owners

Lawyers or investigators

This occurs only in cases involving:

Counterfeit goods

Trademark abuse

Serious IP infringement

13. Limitation of Liability

MzDeal is not responsible for:

Unauthorized use of seller-uploaded media

Buyer disputes related to authenticity outside MzDeal payments

Off-platform sales conducted privately between users

MzDeal only ensures protection inside official tools.

14. Updates to This Policy

MzDeal may update this policy as needed. Continued use of the platform means acceptance of updated terms.

15. Contact Information

For IP concerns or legal matters:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.mzdeal.co.mz

MzDeal is committed to protecting intellectual property and supporting a safe, authentic, and legally compliant marketplace.