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Bill

HD 1995

An Act protecting the use of bank names, trade names and trademarks in electronic communications

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dan Cahill

Massachusetts bill criminalizes unauthorized use of bank names and trademarks in digital communications to combat phishing and financial impersonation fraud.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 1995

Legislative bill overview

HD 1995 would prohibit the unauthorized use of bank names, trade names, and trademarks in electronic communications (emails, texts, web content, etc.). The bill aims to protect financial institutions from impersonation schemes and phishing attacks by establishing legal penalties for fraudulent use of their identifying marks in digital channels.

Why is this important

Financial impersonation and phishing are among the most common fraud vectors targeting consumers and businesses. Clear legal protections and enforcement mechanisms can deter criminals and provide law enforcement with explicit statutory authority to prosecute digital fraud schemes. This directly affects consumer trust in electronic banking and the security of financial transactions.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: The bill may need clearer definitions of what constitutes "use" in electronic communications—does this cover parody, satire, or legitimate criticism of financial institutions?
  • Enforcement jurisdiction: Electronic communications cross state and national borders, raising questions about how Massachusetts law would be enforced against out-of-state or international bad actors
  • False positives and legitimate uses: Legitimate third parties (security researchers, media, consumer advocates) might face legal uncertainty when discussing or referencing bank names and marks for lawful purposes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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