Hootsuite Bullies Bloggers for Using Their Logo

Hootsuite radically protects their brand by silencing their critics.

In a Facebook post in April, digital creator and entrepreneur Ian Anderson Gray shared that the Hootsuite legal department sent him emails accusing him of violating their brand assets and demanding him to remove their logo from “websites, videos, or printed advertising or marketing content.”

This came after Gray cited the disadvantages of using the social media management tool in an article on his website. Gray published the article in 2012, updating it over the years to add new information about Hootsuite’s latest features. The most recent update was on April 22.

Among the list that Gray cited, Hootsuite’s expensive features stood out. Its Legacy Pro plans range from $588 to $17,800 annually, depending on the number of users for one subscription.

In the article, Gray also added a list of advantages that Hootsuite offers. Its features allow automation and integration of social channels like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Linked In, YouTube, and Pinterest.

Hootsuite emphasized the importance of their consent on their Brand Assets guidelines. However, legal-aid sites for consumers and small businesses like Nolo revealed that trademarks can be used without the owner’s prior permission if such is for “informational or editorial purposes” or “accurate comparative product statement.”

As a digital marketing expert, Gray produces content that helps entrepreneurs find success with their business online. This includes reviewing tools and software that help them achieve that goal.