Summary
In Siddhant Ice Creams LLP v. John Doe(s) (Interim Application (L) No. 22104 of 2026), the Bombay High Court granted ad-interim relief against unknown people who set up fake websites and email IDs in the name of NATURAL Ice Creams and 'issued forged franchise letters to solicit payments from prospective franchisees'. Fake franchise schemes are a growing fraud around popular food and retail brands, and a John Doe order lets the brand act before the fraudsters are identified.
| Who is affected | Franchise brands in food, retail, education and salons, and anyone planning to buy a franchise. |
|---|---|
| What to do | Brands should register their trademark, state their official franchise process and website clearly, watch for look-alike domains and email IDs, and act quickly. Buyers should confirm any franchise offer through the brand's official website or office before paying anything. |
| Source | Bombay High Court (reported by LiveLaw) |
This is a plain-language summary for general information, not legal or tax advice. The court order or official document is the authoritative text. Ask an expert how it applies to you.