Hunterfly, a digital lifestyle platform under the IndyaStory Media Network, has expanded its response to a recent copyright and trademark complaint by citing Google search indexing and branding distinctions as evidence of its independent identity.
The platform claims that search engine results themselves clearly demonstrate that Hunterfly and the complainant operate as separate and distinguishable digital brands.
According to the company, the complaint — filed through Cloudflare — alleged “deceptive similarity” involving branding, visual presentation and digital identity elements.
Hunterfly has strongly denied the allegations and described the complaint as a misuse of automated copyright enforcement systems.
Hunterfly Says Google Clearly Differentiates the Two Brands
As part of its response, Hunterfly highlighted differences visible directly on Google Search results, including favicon design, metadata presentation and indexed brand descriptions.
According to the platform:
- The competing website reportedly appears in search results with a red circular favicon featuring smaller “hf.” lettering.
- Hunterfly’s favicon, meanwhile, displays a black circular icon with distinct white serif-style “hf” lettering and a different visual structure.
Hunterfly argues that these differences make it clear that both brands maintain separate visual identities online.
The company also stated that Google indexes the two websites with entirely different descriptions and audience positioning.
According to Hunterfly, Google identifies the competing platform using branding language focused on being a destination for millennial women, while Hunterfly is categorised as a women-first digital media platform focused on fashion, culture and lifestyle coverage.
“Even global search engines like Google clearly differentiate between the two platforms based on their metadata, distinct corporate indexing and independent brand assets,” the company stated.
IndyaStory Network Says Shared Design Language Exists Across Its Own Platforms
Hunterfly reiterated that its visual framework originates from the larger IndyaStory Media Network ecosystem, which includes platforms such as Bext.in.
The company said certain structural layouts, typography styles and dot iconography are part of a consistent internal design system used across multiple network-owned properties.
According to Hunterfly, these assets are proprietary components of its own publishing infrastructure and are not intended to imitate any external platform.
The platform further argued that common abbreviations, minimalistic web layouts and interface conventions are standard across modern digital publishing and cannot reasonably be monopolised.
Legal Counter-Response Being Prepared
Hunterfly confirmed that its legal team is preparing a formal counter-notice addressing the allegations submitted through Cloudflare and related service providers.
The company also said it has proactively refined certain page elements and design structures to avoid any possibility of user confusion, despite maintaining that the allegations are without merit.
The platform added that screenshots showing branding differences, Google indexing results and network-wide design consistency may form part of its legal response.
Hunterfly Says Independent Publishing Will Continue
Despite the ongoing dispute, Hunterfly stated that it will continue operating as an independent digital platform under the IndyaStory Media Network.
The company reaffirmed its focus on publishing original lifestyle, entertainment and women-focused content while criticising what it described as attempts to suppress emerging digital publishers through legal intimidation.
“No corporation owns a demographic, a publishing niche or common internet design conventions,” the statement added.
FAQ
What is the Hunterfly DMCA dispute about?
Hunterfly says a digital media company filed a complaint alleging deceptive similarity in branding and design elements.
How is Hunterfly defending itself?
Hunterfly claims Google search results clearly distinguish its branding, favicon and metadata from the complainant’s platform.
What is the IndyaStory Media Network?
IndyaStory Media Network is the parent publishing network associated with Hunterfly and other digital platforms such as Bext.in.
Has Hunterfly announced legal action?
Hunterfly said its legal team is preparing a formal legal counter-response to the complaint.
Where can readers follow digital publishing and media industry updates?
Readers can follow IndyaStory for technology news, media industry coverage and digital publishing updates.
