Legal Question in Technology Law in Missouri
Google Images - Copyrighted?
I run a parody website about the issue of banning of pitbulls. The site spoofs the position of anti-pitbull activists.
In one section of my site, I have a gallery that I preface with the warning ''disturbing images of pitbulls,'' but which actually contains images of pitbulls in loving situations. Some of the images also have children.
The problem is, I did not ask for permission to post these images. I found them on the google image search. Am I violating any copyrights or otherwise breaking the law by doing so? The satire on my site is very subtle, and the authors of the photos may not want their dogs or children appearing on my site. I am willing to take down any picture ff the author requests it, but I do not want to get sued.
Thank you.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Google Images - Copyrighted?
You should presume that any images you find on-line are copyrighted. The fact that you found them via Google image search has no bearing on their copyright status. If I put a copyrighted image on my website Google will find it before long and make it searchable. Their software will not take away any of my rights to the photo.
Copyright law recognizes a "fair use" exception under which copyrighted material can be used without the consent of the owner. There is no way to tell from your question whether your website makes fair use of any or all of the photos. There are other copyright exceptions but, as before, there is no way to tell whether any of them apply here.
Re: Google Images - Copyrighted?
The reply posted by Mr.Edward Hoffman,Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman is the appropriate reply in the facts and circumstances given. I would not prefer to further comment on this question.
Navin Kumar,
Naashree Associates, Advocate
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