Kaplan takes legal action against counterfeiters in India to protect educational materials

Global education supplier Kaplan has taken legal action in the Delhi High Court against several entities accused of distributing counterfeit “Kaplan Schweser” books and study materials in India.

The lawsuit was filed following the discovery of unauthorised copies of Kaplan’s materials being sold in the Indian market. On 13 September 2023, the Delhi High Court issued an interim order prohibiting the sale and misuse of Kaplan’s trademarked and copyrighted educational content. 

The court also appointed local commissioners to conduct raids on seven locations associated with the defendants, resulting in the seizure of a substantial number of counterfeit books and study materials.

Founded in 1938 operates in 27 countries, serving students, universities, and businesses with a broad range of educational offerings. Kaplan’s services span test preparation, higher education, and professional training. 

“Kaplan remains committed to ensuring that students and professionals have access to only authentic, high-quality educational resources,” said Ashley Pomonis, Executive Director, Legal, Intellectual Property & Corporate Governance at Kaplan. “We are actively pursuing a summary judgment against several defendants to resolve the issue swiftly and protect the integrity of the educational offerings.”

The sale of counterfeit educational materials has become a growing issue, particularly in India, where Kaplan’s “Schweser” study guides are widely used by candidates preparing for professional finance qualifications. 

The counterfeit materials not only infringe upon intellectual property but also risk providing students with inaccurate or outdated content, potentially harming their chances of success.

This decisive action sends a clear message that Kaplan is fully prepared to vigorously defend its intellectual property and will not hesitate to take legal action against those who infringe on its trademarks or unlawfully use or reproduce its copyrighted materials,” added Pomonis.