Linea, Ethereum’s layer-2 solution backed by Consensys, is urging Matter Labs to retract their trademark attempts on “ZK,” stating that it goes against Ethereum’s principles. The zkEVM layer-2 solution Linea is calling out Matter Labs, the creators of zkSync, to withdraw their trademark application for “ZK,” which they plan to use as a ticker for their upcoming token.
In a recent post on May 31, Linea stressed that claiming ownership of a cryptographic concept through legal means contradicts Ethereum’s values, and called on Matter Labs to reconsider their trademark efforts. Linea also expressed solidarity with StarkWare, who is also urging Matter Labs to retract their trademark filing. Several key figures in the crypto space, including Sandeep Nailwal and Brendan Farmer from Polygon, Eli Ben-Sasson from StarkWare, and Tiancheng Xie from Polyhedra Network, have voiced their opposition to Matter Labs’ actions.
The controversy arose when Matter Labs filed for trademarks on “ZK” in an attempt to secure exclusive rights, despite the term already being used by Polyhedra Network for their token. Polyhedra Network responded by changing their ticker to “ZKJ” and criticizing Matter Labs for their actions. This move has sparked criticism within the Ethereum community, with concerns raised about potential stifling of innovation and collaboration in the realm of Zero-Knowledge cryptography.
In response to the backlash, Matter Labs defended their trademark filings in a post, stating that it was done to ensure the term “ZK” can be freely used in the context of “ZK Sync,” “ZK Stack,” and related names. Despite the controversy, Matter Labs remains firm in their decision, highlighting trademarks as the only legal recourse available in this situation.
In related news, a former Coinbase global expansion lead has joined Matter Labs as president, adding further depth to the ongoing developments within the crypto space.