The Delhi High Court has ordered the blocking of 21 domains hosting rogue fantasy gaming applications accused of copying the branding and interface of popular fantasy sports platform Dream11, in a move aimed at protecting users from being misled by impersonating apps.
As per media reports, the interim order was passed by Justice Jyoti Singh while hearing a suit filed by Sporta Technologies, the operator of Dream11. The company alleged that unidentified operators had launched gaming apps under names such as “Come,” “Come Sports,” and “Come x Dream11,” which closely replicated Dream11’s trademarks, visual identity and app interface.
After examining the evidence, the court observed that the operators appeared to be deliberately attempting to capitalise on Dream11’s reputation by creating applications that could mislead users into believing they were associated with the official platform.
The court noted that the defendants had reproduced Dream11’s trademarks, logos, promotional content and design elements in a way that could deceive users about the origin of the services.
In its observations, the court stated that a comparison of the platforms indicated that the defendants had launched their apps “with an intent to cash in on the goodwill and reputation” of Dream11, potentially misleading the public into believing the services were endorsed by or affiliated with the company.
As part of the order, the court directed the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to notify internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to 21 domain names linked to the alleged infringing apps.
The rogue platforms were reportedly distributed through APK files hosted on multiple websites, allowing users to download the apps outside official app stores. These apps were also promoted through advertisements on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.
Restrictions imposed by the court
The High Court restrained the defendants and anyone acting on their behalf from:
– Using the “Dream11” or “Dream Sports” trademarks or any deceptively similar marks
– Using such marks in domain names, mobile applications, websites or advertisements
– Copying Dream11’s mobile app interface, promotional material or copyrighted content
