WP Engine Files Lawsuit Against WordPress Co-Founder: Claims Libel and Extortion! ⚖️

News & Articles
,
1

Summary:

  1. Legal Action Initiated
    WP Engine, a prominent web hosting provider, has launched a federal lawsuit against WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg and his company, Automattic, alleging libel and attempted extortion.

  2. Background of the Dispute
    The lawsuit arises from a public disagreement regarding WordPress trademark usage and open-source licensing, which has escalated into serious legal allegations.

  3. Accusations of Misconduct
    WP Engine claims that Mullenweg’s statement calling the company a “cancer to WordPress” on his blog constitutes an abuse of power, accusing Automattic of extortion and greed.

  4. Demand for Royalties
    The conflict intensified when Automattic demanded 8% of WP Engine’s monthly revenue as royalties, alleging trademark infringement, which prompted WP Engine to issue a cease-and-desist letter.

  5. Multiple Complaints Filed
    The lawsuit comprises 11 complaints, including slander and violations of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, highlighting the severity of the allegations against Mullenweg and Automattic.

Read more at: WP Engine Complaint PDF