What does the Trademark symbol protect?

The Trademark symbol primarily protects company and brand names, along with logos and slogans that distinguish goods or services from those of others. Trademarks serve as identifiers for consumers, helping them recognize and trust the source of a product or service. This legal protection enables businesses to build their brand reputation and ensures that they can assert their rights against unauthorized use by competitors or counterfeiters. Trademarks aid in preventing confusion in the marketplace, thereby supporting fair competition and consumer choice.

In contrast, other options do not fall under trademark protection. Copyright laws, for instance, safeguard original works of authorship such as literature and art, but not brand names. Product safety standards and environmental certifications are addressed through different regulatory frameworks and do not involve trademark protection, which is specifically focused on branding elements.