Legal Question in Business Law in Florida

I was just told by an 'internet security and law expert' that it is illegal for my company to search for companies in related professions using their PPC (pay per click) as it shows to courts that 'we are stealing' from the company as we are knowingly costing them more in marketing. He some how knew what time and what browser was being used and said he can prove it was our IP address.

I didnt even know what PPC was until he called and threatened me saying there is a civil lawsuit currently being tried and he will add my name to it and the feds will come and confiscate my computer.

I asked if anyone in my office did that search and my marketing girl said she searched two sites as she was trying to get some information. There was no malicious intent in the search and it was for purely for information on related businesses. I thought searching on the internet was free!

I appreciate any help regarding this. Thanks very much.


Asked on 6/21/11, 12:27 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Cary Levinson Levinson & Capuano, LLC

He may just be attempting to scare you or he may be fishing for a settlement.

Either way, if he contacts you again, I'd suggest you contact an attorney. Be careful what information you give this person and think before signing or accepting anything he sends your way.

This is NOT LEGAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be relied on to make any legal or medical or other major decisions. If you have any specific questions or inquiries regarding any of this information, you should consult with an attorney licensed in your state.

Cary Levinson, Esq.

Levinson & Capuano, LLC

(954) 703-2110

[email protected]

http://BrowardLegal.com

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Answered on 6/21/11, 2:09 pm
Kevin B. Murphy Franchise Foundations, APC

As a Franchise Attorney I can say I've never heard this. First of all, stealing, or theft, is taking property that doesn't belong to you. Clicking on a pay per click is not taking anything. Companies that use PPC know anyone can click, including competitors, and that they are charged for every click. And anything posted on the internet is clearly in the public domain, i.e. free for all to see and learn from. Second, the feds have much more important things to do with their limited resources than go around and confiscate computers - unless you're accused of being a terrorist, etc. Sound's like this guy is blowing a lot of hot air, but consult with a good business or franchise attorney in your area for specific advice regarding your risk in this area.

Mr. Franchise - Kevin B. Murphy, B.S., M.B.A., J.D.

Franchise Foundations, a Professional Corporation

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Answered on 6/21/11, 2:16 pm


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