Can I use logos or brands of others in my blog?
July 22, 2024 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Chloé Tressel
Dear Media Law Attorney,
I have been running a blog for some time now, where I write about various topics. Now, I am planning to use a foreign logo or brand in one of my posts to emphasize my statements. However, I am unsure if I am allowed to do so, or if I may potentially violate trademark law or other legal regulations.
My intention is to give my readers a clear idea of the products or companies mentioned in my post through the use of the logo or brand. However, I also want to make sure that I do not unintentionally get into legal trouble.
I am concerned that by using a foreign logo or brand, I may risk receiving a warning or even a lawsuit. Therefore, I am wondering if there is a way to legally use such content safely, or if I should refrain from doing so altogether.
Can you please provide me with information on whether I am allowed to use foreign logos or brands in my blog, and what precautions I should take to avoid legal consequences?
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Best regards,
Erwin Schlattmann
Dear Mr. Schlattmann,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the use of third-party logos or trademarks in your blog. It is understandable that you may feel uncertain about trademark law and other legal provisions and want to ensure that you do not encounter any legal issues.
It is important to know that using third-party logos or trademarks without the consent of the rights holder generally constitutes a violation of trademark law. The use of logos or trademarks of third parties can lead to legal consequences such as warnings or claims for damages. Therefore, it is advisable to be cautious and to observe certain precautions.
To ensure that you use third-party logos or trademarks legally, there are basically two options. The first option is to obtain a license or permission from the rights holder. If you wish to use the logo or trademark in your blog, you should contact the rights holder and request written permission. This way, you have the permission to use the logo or trademark and avoid legal issues.
The second option is to use the logo or trademark within the scope of the right to quote. The right to quote allows you to use third-party logos or trademarks when necessary for explanation, criticism, or reporting on the relevant product or company. In this case, you should make sure that the quoted logo or trademark does not give the impression that you are affiliated with the company or endorse its products or services.
It is important to always ensure that the use of third-party logos or trademarks complies with trademark law and other legal provisions. If you are unsure whether you are allowed to use a logo or trademark, I recommend seeking legal advice from a media law attorney.
I hope that this information is helpful to you and supports you in the safe use of third-party logos or trademarks in your blog. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Chloé Tressel
Media Law Attorney
