Generally, no one owns hashtags. These are created by users who wish to talk about a certain topic or issue with any other user on the platform.
Anyone using the proper social media platforms can start hashtags and they can further develop these to specifically relate to their business, event or objective.
There are still a number of rules to follow to prevent the hashtag from getting hijacked. Even promoted hashtags (which are paid for) can still be taken over and totally driven away from their intended topic.
However, while you cannot control what happens to a hashtag when it's already out there, you can make it targeted enough so that users will not misconstrue its meaning.
Even large companies have become the targets of hashtag hijacking. Here are some rules and guidelines on how to protect a hashtag online.
Who Controls A Hashtag (And How To Regain Control)?
Individual
$49.00/month$539.00 if pre-paid annually
Track 2 Hashtags
Compare 2 Hashtags
On Same Chart
2 Saved Views
1 Month Data Storage
Export Data
CSV,XML,JSON
Normal Support
Business
$99.00/month$1,089.00 if pre-paid annually
Track 8 Hashtags
Compare 4 Hashtags
On Same Chart
8 Saved Views
6 Month Data Storage
Export Data
CSV,XML,JSON
Premium Support
Enterprise
$189.00/month$2,079.00 if pre-paid annually
Track 20 Hashtags
Compare 6 Hashtags
On Same Chart
20 Saved Views
12 Month Data Storage
Export Data
CSV,XML,JSON
Premium Support
Agency
$349.00/month$3,839.00 if pre-paid annually
Track 40 Hashtags
Compare 10 Hashtags
On Same Chart
40 Saved Views
12 Month Data Storage
Export Data
CSV,XML,JSON
Premium Support