How can I defend myself against unauthorized use of my images on the internet?
January 23, 2023 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Isabel Tressel
Dear lawyer,
I am reaching out to you as I urgently need help to defend myself against the unauthorized use of my images on the internet. In the past, I have noticed that my photos have been published on various websites and social media platforms without my consent. This unauthorized use of my images is causing me great concern and violates my right to my own image.
The situation has escalated to the point where I no longer know how to address it. I have already tried contacting the operators of the relevant websites and requesting the removal of my images, but without success. It seems that my concerns are not being taken seriously and my rights are not being respected.
I am now wondering what legal options I have to defend myself against the unauthorized use of my images on the internet. Are there legal provisions that protect my rights as the author and rights holder? How can I find out who is responsible for the publication of my images? What steps do I need to take to obtain a cease and desist order for the use of my images and potentially claim damages?
I would be grateful for any support and advice you can provide me with in this matter. Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Ludwig Widmann
Dear Mr. Widmann,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the unauthorized use of your images on the internet. It is understandable that you are concerned and want to protect your right to your own image. As a media law attorney, I can assist you in this matter and show you the legal options available to you.
First and foremost, it is important to know that the right to one's own image in Germany is regulated in the Copyright Act (KUG). According to § 22 KUG, images of individuals may not be published without their consent. If this happens, you as the affected party have various options to take action against it.
In your case, where your images were published without your consent on various websites and social media platforms, you can first request the operators of the websites to immediately remove the images. If these requests are unsuccessful, you can engage a lawyer to issue a cease and desist letter and potentially claim damages against those responsible for the unauthorized use of your images.
To determine who is responsible for the publication of your images, conducting an internet search or enlisting the help of specialized IT forensic experts can be helpful. They can trace the sources of the publications and assist you in identifying the responsible parties.
It is important that you act quickly in such cases and seek legal advice to effectively enforce your rights. I am happy to assist you in pursuing your claims and support you in this matter.
Please do not hesitate to contact me to schedule a consultation for a detailed legal advice session. I am available to help you in this matter.
Best regards,
Isabel Tressel
Media Law Attorney
