Social media is not a legal vacuum; there are numerous legal stumbling blocks lurking. For example, before using a photo, the situation regarding the rights to use the work must be clarified. Photos may not be used without the permission of the author or manufacturer. It is also important to ensure that no legitimate interests of the people depicted in the photo are violated.

 

In addition, the law against unfair competition (UWG) also applies on the internet and in social media. Competition there must also be fair and objective. Unfair, especially misleading or aggressive business practices are also prohibited on the Internet and in social media. Furthermore, no name or trademark rights of others may be infringed and certain disclosure obligations must be adhered to.

When companies use social media for their communication, advertising and business activities, they must comply with legal requirements. A wide variety of legal areas are relevant, from civil and corporate law to media, copyright and competition law to e-commerce law, consumer protection law and criminal law.
Companies are often confronted with the following legal aspects in their social media activities and what companies need to pay attention to in their social media presence can be found in our newsletter.

Newsletter