Nike is suing Florida-based social media influencer Eben Fox, who goes by the alias of “Cedaz,” for alleged trademark infringement, counterfeiting and related causes of actions.
The lawsuit was filed in US District Court Middle District of Florida - Tampa Division on Dec. 15. According to Nike, Cedaz has been using his large online following to encourage his fans to purchase fake sneakers. The company also accuses the influencer of selling counterfeit products via a website launched with the global shipping platform PandaBuy as well as his social media accounts. According to Nike, Cedaz “brazenly promotes and sells counterfeit Nike goods on his various social media channels and apparently believes he can engage in this illegal conduct with impunity.”
Nike seeks a court order that stops the influencer from “manufacturing, minting, transporting, promoting, advertising, publicizing, distributing, offering for sale, or selling any products (including but not limited to shoes and apparel goods)” that infringe on Nike’s protected marks. The company also seeks a financial award equal to three times the amount of compensatory damages and increased profits, as well as statutory and punitive damages and attorney fees.
Joe Southron, counsel for the influencer, said that the defendant disagrees with the allegations but is planning “to cooperate with Nike to resolve their concerns,” Footwear News has reported.
