6. Username Policy
Updated 17 October 2025
This document outlines a username policy, primarily designed for online platforms and communities, such as those involved in software development. It details rules regarding account name availability, what to do if a desired username is taken, and prohibits name squatting. The policy also touches upon trademark infringement claims related to usernames.
Username Policy
This document is taken from the GitHub website - more information about GitHub and its functions can be found at https://github.com/. Please note that many of the included provisions are designed for GitHub or similar site (such as for building and developing software with online communities), so they are not relevant to all types of business.
You can amend this document to be suitable for your own Community and purposes using the smart fields and customizing the bracketed sections. We recommend adding hyperlinks to your own policies and website pages - make sure your business has in place all the policies referred to here.
[company name] account names are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and are intended for immediate and active use.
What if the username I want is already taken?
Keep in mind that not all activity on [company name] is publicly visible; accounts with no visible activity may be in active use.
If the username you want has already been claimed, consider other names or unique variations. Using a number, hyphen, or an alternative spelling might help you identify a desirable username that's still available.
[Trademark Policy
If you believe someone's account is violating your trademark rights, you can find more information about making a trademark complaint on our [insert relevant page].]
Name Squatting Policy
[company name] prohibits account name squatting, and account names may not be reserved or inactively held for future use. Accounts violating this name squatting policy may be removed or renamed without notice. Attempts to sell, buy, or solicit other forms of payment in exchange for account names are prohibited and may result in permanent account suspension.
About this template
What is this template?
6. Username Policy is a free, ready-to-use Commercial law template you can open, customize, and download on GitLaw. It gives you a professionally structured starting point, so you never have to draft from a blank page. The wording is plain and modern, organized into clear sections that are easy to read, edit, and adapt to your own situation before you share or sign it.
When should you use it?
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What's typically included?
A well-drafted Commercial law usually sets out the parties involved, the scope of the agreement, and each side's rights and responsibilities. Expect sections covering key terms and definitions, how long the agreement lasts, how it can be ended, and what happens if something goes wrong. This template brings those building blocks together in a sensible order, so you can focus on the specifics rather than worrying about what to include. Open it to read the full document, then sign up to edit, negotiate, and e-sign it directly in GitLaw.