User-Generated Content and The Law

UGC and the law
User-generated Content
&
The Law
February 2010
We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 1 of 48

UGC and the law
CONTENTS
Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 3
To moderate or not to moderate? ............................................................................................................. 4
General ..................................................................................................................................................... 5
Jurisdiction ......................................................................................................................................................5
Contempt of Court ..........................................................................................................................................8
Employee Use of Social Media .....................................................................................................................11
Getting Personal ..................................................................................................................................... 14

Online Privacy ...............................................................................................................................................14
Data Protection.............................................................................................................................................17
Defamation ...................................................................................................................................................20
Getting Nasty .......................................................................................................................................... 23

Abuse, Hate Crimes, and Terrorism ..............................................................................................................23
Harassment and Cyber-Bullying ...................................................................................................................27
Obscenity ......................................................................................................................................................30
Child Protection ............................................................................................................................................33
Business Matters..................................................................................................................................... 37
Copyright, Trademarks, and Intellectual Property .......................................................................................37
Competitions ................................................................................................................................................41
Marketing and Advertising ...........................................................................................................................43
Summary and Credits .............................................................................................................................. 48

UGC and the law
INTRODUCTION
Working with colleagues in the public sector, there is an understandable level of
“
trepidation in getting involved online for fear of falling foul of numerous often unknown
laws relating to online media and community management.
This remains a relatively new area to most in government with the perception of
”
complexity of legislation and the ramifications of failing to meet regulatory requirements
preventing many from engaging at all. This is particularly true in areas such as
safeguarding children online.
Those working in government looking to innovate in the area of digital media are crying
out for simplified support and guidance that enables them to stay the right side of the law.
Dominic Campbell, FutureGov Consultancy
From Dominic Sparkes, MD of Tempero
As a moderation company, organisations call on us to protect them within environments that feature their
brand alongside user-generated content, be it on their own blogs or forums, or on mass social networking
sites such as Facebook or YouTube.
As part of our set-up process we undertake a risk assessment for each project, and it’s here we often
discover that many organisations aren’t aware of the various legal risks and are shocked of the damage that
can be caused. Relief that Tempero will take elements of liability swiftly follows the initial worry, but the
risks don’t only bring financial penalties – hence this guide.
In recent years most organisations have gone from minimal digital marketing (not even email campaigns) to
rolling out full blown social media campaigns with elements of data capture, content hosting, and direct
marketing to consumers.
We believe that the current level of limited knowledge and self-regulation is only going to damage the
digital industry’s reputation and we are likely to see a raft of tough legislation imposed if we don’t clean up
social media.
The issues are varied and after more than ten years working in interactive environments, one of the areas
we are still most concerned about is protection for children online. Through our work with brands like the
NSPCC and Disney UK, we see the vast scale of behind the scenes work required to ensure youth
communities are safe and productive environments.
For some brands it’s a case of cutting corners, but most are simply struggling to understand their
responsibilities and requirements under confusing and outdated laws. This guide aims to break down some
barriers and distil the wealth of available information into one easy to comprehend suite of usefulness!

UGC and the law
TO MODERATE OR NOT TO MODERATE?

Last year alone we resourced the equivalent of over 14 years in moderation hours so you’d think we always
advocate professional management of communities. Actually, that’s not always the case, and ironically,
there may be greater liability associated with moderated environments as the operator assumes
responsibility for content which appears on a site that’s hosted, or even editorially approved by them.
Companies have the tough decision of deciding what they consider are acceptable levels of risk to their
organisation and what levels of damage to their reputation could result from legal action and the resulting
media fallout from operating within social media. Carrying out some level of moderation would generally
seem the sensible route to avoid issues.
For those not moderating, providing ways to report the content to site owners is vital, but unfortunately
we’re seeing many sites and groups poorly executing any means of which users (and even the police) can
alert inappropriate content. Even worse, is the speed at which reported content is taken down - if at all.
This is why we’re seeing the government setting up new reporting procedures, such as the Directgov portal
government for reporting terrorism, being extended as a place for the public to make “a civic challenge
against material that they find offensive, even if it is not illegal” while legislation catches up.
Despite the misconception that moderation is just “point and delete” every few days to clear out unwanted
content, moderation is a skill; requiring trained moderators to understand each brand’s acceptable levels of
risk, complex legal concepts, suspicious behaviour (such as grooming) and how to manage a community.
When preparing to engage in UGC, expect the unexpected and be as comprehensive as
“
you can in drawing up your moderation policies. Someone will always do something you
haven't thought of! Have extensive guidelines in place and monitor closely, yet try also to
”
be as light a touch as possible as this is the key to creating an active, vibrant and lively
community. And remember your guidelines are not a static document - review and react.
Once you've established a community, you should also give power to users to flag up
unacceptable content and take control of their area as your active community members
are the ones best placed to guide you on what is and what's not acceptable.
John Robinson, NHS Choices
“
There is a size threshold when a community needs to consider moderation. The bigger
and more popular a community gets, the more positive and negative attention it‟s going to
attract. It‟s important to keep the obviously bad elements out to ensure that the
contributive members feel comfortable and safe enough to participate.
”
A guide or rule book on what you moderate against should be made accessible to the
community so that there is no uncertainty for members on what is and isn‟t allowed. This
will actually promote interaction. If your community is up for it, have them suggest the
rules that they would like the community to be moderated on, empowering them with a
sense of the safety and direction of their community.
Jon Bishop, Gumtree

UGC and the law
JURISDICTION
“ ”
This is a tough one, but the general rule is that any jurisdiction which has a clear
connection to the dispute will hear a case. Therefore, publishers and editors can't expect
to hide behind a server hosting overseas if they are personally located in the UK.
Furthermore, the Digital Economy Bill contains a draft provision which, if passed, would
allow the Secretary of State to order ISPs to block access to any website, wherever it is
hosted or controlled.
Danvers Baillieu [1]
The internet is in effect a new territory, crossing physical and political boundaries. Jurisdiction is therefore
problematic, particularly when laws in different countries are in conflict with each other. It affects all the items
discussed in this guide.
Definition
“The geographical region in which a law can be enforced.”
The Law
The United Kingdom is divided into three legal jurisdictions.
English law English law has jurisdiction over England and Wales.
Scotland has retained a different legal system from England and Wales but is
Scots law
effected by European Law and the ECHR.
Northern Ireland has had its own legal system since its creation as a separate
Northern Ireland law
country within the United Kingdom.
European Union law Has direct effect over all EU member states.

UGC and the law
In The News
A US Games company is currently suing a

British blogger in the Australian courts.
If successful the case will have

repercussions on how law applies to the
social web around the world. [2]
The National Portrait Gallery in London is

taking legal action against a US user who
copied pictures of paintings from their
website and uploaded them to US site
Wikimedia.
The defendant argues UK copyright law is

not applicable. [3]

UGC and the law
What You Need To Know
 You cannot protect yourself in all jurisdictions
 Generally speaking, each country's courts will decide whether they want to hear a case
 If a website can be accessed within a particular country, anything uploaded to or downloaded from that
website is subject to the country's laws, even if the website is hosted, run and owned elsewhere
 Defamation cases can be brought in every country in which the libel was accessed
 The standards for proving libel in the UK are significantly lower than in the US, leading to what is known
as 'libel tourism'
Recommendations
 State the jurisdiction in your Terms & Conditions – have a 'Choice of Law' or “Governing Law and
Jurisdiction” clause. You can also state which country's law will be followed, and this does not have to
be the same as the country for jurisdiction
 Be sensitive to the range of different social norms and legal frameworks for users across the world
Further Reading
References
1 Danvers Baillieu, Winston & Strawn, Feb 2010
2 B Johnson “US Games Company sues British blogger” http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2009/dec/11/evony-sues-british-blogger, 11 Dec
2009
3 Wikimedia “Protecting the public domain and sharing our cultural heritage” http://blog.wikimedia.org/2009/07/16/protecting-the-public-
domain-and-sharing-our-cultural-heritage/ 16 Jul 2009

UGC and the law
Contempt of Court
“ ”
There are things we can do – it's already happening. We are taking down names and
addresses from the internet, and we are working with service providers. People may think
they can get away with breaching court orders, but I would say to those people: I wouldn't
want to mess around if I were them.
Baroness Scotland [1]
Court orders are often put in place to ensure material isn’t published which could jeopardise a fair trial and also to
protect the identities of those involved in legal proceedings.
Online conversations around legal proceedings can frequently, and often innocently, veer towards being in contempt.
Recently though some community users are intentionally trying to use the ease of social media to publish and share
information to purposely ‘name and shame’ as witnessed in 2009 around the Baby P trial.
Definition
“When a court’s authority is not upheld, such as disobeying a court order, that action is held as
contempt of court.”
The Law
Contempt of court applies equally to content published by professional writers and the general public. A
precedent has been set that ISPs are protected if unaware of content in contempt, this would likely extend
to site owners and editors.
There are two forms of contempt of court:
1. Statutory contempt of court criminalises the publication of material

Contempt of Court Act which creates a risk that the course of justice would be seriously impeded
1981 [2] or prejudiced;
2. Common law contempt targets any other action which is intended to

interfere with justice or imminent court proceedings.
Electronic Commerce (EC

Lack of knowledge of the content that is breaching a court order would protect
Directive) Regulations
ISPs.
2002 [3]

UGC and the law
In The News
Throughout the Baby P trial

groups used social networking
sites, like Facebook, to blatantly
break court orders.
This and other similar incidents

have highlighted the struggle to
enforce the Contempt of Court Act
1981 in a new media world. [3]
In 2001 ISP Demon Internet successfully

argued they could not be held in contempt
for protected information posted on its web
pages in relation to the James Bulger case.
Previously Demon had been the first ISP sued

for libel for being too slow to remove
defamatory comments posted in a chat room
after being contacted by the complainant. [4]

UGC and the law
 Contempt of Court is considered a serious offence, but lack of knowledge appears to be a robust
defense
 Publishers, and everyone else involved in publication, could in theory be held responsible for content
published
 Even linking to foreign sites which break UK laws could count as contempt
 You must respond to a take-down order in a timely fashion
Recommendations
 Ensure your take-down procedures are fast and effective
 Review your procedures regularly to stay in line with technological developments
 Stay up to date with what orders are in place, particularly around high-profile or controversial cases
Further Reading
References
1 Baroness Scotland interview with the Guardian during Baby P trial “Is the internet destroying juries?”
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/jan/26/juries-internet-justice, 26 Jan 2010
2 Contempt of Court Act 1981 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/RevisedStatutes/Acts/ukpga/1981/cukpga_19810049_en_2
3 Electronic Commerce (EC Directive) Regulations 2002 http://www.uk-legislation.hmso.gov.uk/si/si2002/20022013.htm
4 R Verkaik “Internet hate campaign that made a mockery of the high court” http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/internet-
hate-campaign-that-made-a-mockery-of-the-high-court-1770269.html, 11 Aug 2009
5 “Net firm wins Bulger ruling” http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/1432125.stm 10 Jul 2001

UGC and the law
EMPLOYEE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA
“ ”
As a responsible business, you should protect yourself by having clear internal policies
and procedures for dealing with UGC. You wouldn't ask your staff to operate heavy
machinery without the right safety equipment and training. The same should apply to use
of interactive internet technologies.
Unfortunately the use of social media such as message boards, Facebook, as well as a raft of other social
media tools has been received with some negativity by employers and a large proportion of companies are
laying down strict policy on the use of such media, some going as far as banning personal use in the
workplace.
“ ”
It is important that employers develop or update existing IT policies to state that any
comments posted by an employee either in work or outside of work which is considered
detrimental to the Company, its employees or clients and which are not consistent with
their terms and conditions of employment could lead to dismissal and outline what is
reasonable and expected of an employee and their use of such social media.
Debbie Towersey [2]
With many adopting social media programmes though, there is an increased risk of employees accidentally
violating employment terms, like confidentiality, as they familiarise themselves with how best to use social
technologies in the work context.
With many social media marketing mistakes falling under “Bad Practice” rather than a defined breach of
regulations we may see more former employees bringing cases of Unfair Dismissal against employers who
blame individuals rather than internal strategy for embarrassing corporate incidents. Many companies’ lack
of a workable and relevant social media policy could also increase disputes over what is and isn’t
appropriate employee usage of social media.
Of special mention is many employers’ failure to vet employees who moderate, or even oversee,
interactive online environments for young people since a recent law change at the end of 2009. [This is
discussed in more detail in the section Child Protection].

UGC and the law
In The News
Vodafone UK shocked everyone by

sending out an offensive Tweet in
February 2010.
The company confirmed their

account was not hacked and the
tweet was sent by a staff member
who was later suspended. [3]
In June 2009 the HabitatUK twitter feed

featured popular “hash tags” posted with
unrelated promotional tweets to increase
their likelihood of being seen alongside
conversations like #Iranelection and #Apple
Habitat publically apologized saying the tweets

were not approved by the team and were the
work of an “over enthusiastic” intern. [4]

UGC and the law
 A company will normally be held responsible for content posted by an employee
 Copyright in anything created by an employee during their work normally belongs to the employer
 Moderators and other employees should not normally be able to access or view personal data given by
users on your website
 If you employ moderators to monitor children's interactive websites they have to be registered with
the Independent Safeguarding Authority
 Employees should not use their moderator identity outside of working hours
Recommendations
 Restricting all social media access is more likely to result in employees never learning how best to use
social networks and technologies
 In general, while it might be advantageous to try and capitalize on an employee’s personal social media
profile, separate work and personal accounts may avoid problems further down the road
 Employees using or overseeing any interactivity technologies should have basic legal training
Further Reading
Useful Links
NMK: Rough Guide to social media and the law:

http://www.nmk.co.uk/articles/1040
Out-Law.com:
Internet and email policies http://www.out-law.com/page-458
Staff and their personal blogs http://www.out-law.com/page-7840
References
2 Debbie Towersey, HR2HR Solutions Ltd, Feb 2010
3 Zee “A severe breach of rules leaves Vodafone red faced and left to apologise on Twitter.” http://thenextweb.com/uk/2010/02/05/vodafone-
uks-tweets-awful-language-embarrassing-apologies/ 5 Feb 2010
4 C Beaumont “Habitat apologises for Twitter hashtag spam” http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/twitter/5621970/Habitat-apologises-for-
Twitter-hashtag-spam.html 24 Jun 2009

UGC and the law
ONLINE PRIVACY
“ Every day I receive an email from somebody about how their account was hacked, how a
friend tagged them in the photo and they want a way to avoid it as well as a number of
other complications related to their privacy on Facebook.
Nick O‟Neill [1]
Personal information is one of the most valuable currencies on the net, but the ease of transmission of this
information can make it very easy for users and service providers to violate privacy rights. Regulators are
struggling to catch up with the realities online.
Data protection and how that data can be used in electronic communications is regulated in the form of the
Data Protection Act and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003. But growing
concerns around online privacy are predominantly related to the unauthorised publishing of information by
malicious, or even un-aware, social media users.
Definition
“The right of the individual to be protected against intrusion into his personal life or affairs, or
those of his family, by direct physical means or by publication of information.”
Law and guidance

Privacy does not have specific protection in UK law; but privacy is protected in a number of ways.
The UK adheres to Article 8 of the ECHR, which protects privacy robustly.

European Convention on However, the Human Rights Act 1998 only binds public bodies, and not individuals,
Human Rights [2] so there still is no general right to protection from invasion of privacy by other
individuals in society.
Privacy and Electronic The Directive on Privacy and Electronic Communications requires Member States
Communications to ensure confidentiality of the communications and related traffic data by
Regulations 2003 [3] prohibiting unlawful interception and surveillance.
This common law right has been established in the English courts in relation to
Common Law ‘right to
obtaining or publishing unauthorised information (or photographs) where a ‘duty
confidence’ [4] of confidence’ exists.
Aside from the obvious applications in Law, Health Services, and contractually,
[5] privacy can be protected by fair and reasonable expectation that information was
‘Duty of Confidence’
obtained confidentially. This confidence would be breached via unauthorised use
of that information, to the detriment, of the owner or subject of that information.

UGC and the law
In The News
Two Germans convicted of murder in

1990 attempted to sue Wikipedia for
invading privacy by publishing their
names.
The law in Germany upheld their complaint
but the US has much stronger supports for
Freedom of Speech, rendering German
privacy laws effectively meaningless. [6]
Facebook are continually pushing the

boundaries regarding user's privacy.
They are currently defending several claims in

the US on privacy violations. [7]

UGC and the law
 Specific laws to protect privacy are rare in the UK and elsewhere. New laws such as the European
Convention on Human Rights are changing this, but this piecemeal progress means UGC providers are
at risk of becoming a test case in the UK or abroad (see Jurisdiction)
 Publishing information such as real names, addresses, relationships and private messages are risk areas
 There are moves to shift power and protections back to the users, including an idea to develop a
standard Privacy Commons equivalent to the Creative Commons system already in use
 Privacy violations are treated seriously by the courts, if found guilty, penalties can be heavy
 The Privacy Paradox is where people say they are concerned about privacy but then give information to
sites like Facebook. This does not however, remove responsibilities from the service provider
 However, under the EU Directive on Electronic Commerce, companies that cache or host user
information, and companies that serve as a "mere conduit," have broad immunity from prosecution
over user-generated material
Recommendations
 Provide clear guidance and 'rules of play' to discourage privacy violations by users
 Ensure staff are aware of the issues
 Remove contentious content as soon as you can
 Keep an eye on the news for changes in the law
Further Reading
Your Privacy
A UK site offering its readers advice about their legal rights
http://www.yourprivacy.co.uk/HumanRightsYourRightsToPrivacy.html
Liberty – Your Rights

Liberty is an independent human rights organisation which works to defend and extend rights and freedoms in
England and Wales. This site is their online guide to human rights law in England and Wales
http://www.yourrights.org.uk
References
1 Nick O’Neill “10 Privacy Settings Every Facebook User Should Know” http://www.allfacebook.com/2009/02/facebook-privacy/, 02 Feb 2009
2 European Convention on Human Rights http://www.echr.coe.int/nr/rdonlyres/d5cc24a7-dc13-4318-b457-5c9014916d7a/0/englishanglais.pdf
3 Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/SI/si2003/20032426.htm
4 Right to Confidence (Open University) http://openlearn.open.ac.uk/mod/resource/view.php?id=282302
5 Duty of Confidence http://www.ipit-update.com/conf.htm
6 C Arthur “Wikipedia sued by German killers in privacy claim” http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2009/nov/13/wikipedia-sued-privacy-
claim, 13 Nov 2009
7 B Johnson “Privacy no longer a social norm, says Facebook founder” http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2010/jan/11/facebook-privacy, 11
Jan 2010

UGC and the law
DATA PROTECTION
“ ”
Although heavily regulated, there has not been much in the way of practical guidance for
those companies who are collecting data online. However, the Information Commissioner
is currently consulting on a new code of practice in this area - the first related to the
internet in ten years, since the issue of cookies was examined!"
[1]
Danvers Baillieu
While privacy laws are patchy and unclear, the Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA) is robust, and reinforced by
EU directives and human rights legislation. Criminal as well as civil charges can be made if you break Data
Protection Laws.
The Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations set out rules for people who wish to send you
electronic direct marketing, for example, email and text messages. The Information Commissioner's Office
provides information on UK Privacy Guidelines and Regulation.
Definition
“Personal data is any recorded information about a living individual that can be identified from
that data and other information.”
Law and guidance
Both the UK and European Union have clear regulation in the area of collection and use of personal data.
Relevant laws are many but the principle one is the Data Protection Act 1998. It
Data Protection Act 1998
[2] contains eight Principles which Data Controllers (anyone storing personal data)
must adhere to.
Privacy and Electronic

Communications (EC
The Directive provides guidance on the sending of unsolicited direct marketing.
Directive) Regulations
2003 [3]

UGC and the law
In The News
In 2007 Judges in Cologne, Germany,

rejected a suit filed by a secondary-school
teacher who felt her data protection rights
were being violated by an online reviews
site.
It was rejected on the grounds that grading
teachers on the Internet is covered under
the basic right to free expression. [4]
The topic for 2010’s Safer Internet Day

was ‘Think B 4 U post’.
The event encouraged greater awareness

and responsibility for the publishing of
your own data online. [5]

UGC and the law
 A website which collects any kind of personal information has to follow the 8 Data Processing Principles
in the Data Protection Act. It also has to register as a 'Data Controller' with the Information
Commissioner's Office. Failure to do so is a criminal offence
 ‘Processing’ is defined very broadly and includes data collection, use, storage, disclosure, amendment
and even mere possession
 The Act applies whenever a controller uses equipment situated within the EU in order to process data -
and this includes user's computers. So even if your business is outside the EU, you will still have to obey
the same rules if you deal with any user within it
 Individuals have various rights including access to the information you store about them. Make sure
you are able to uphold these rights
 Transparent data collection also extends to automatic tools such as cookies, IP identification, or other
tracking and collection tools such as spiders
 Moderators should only have access to users’ personal data in order to enable them to perform
moderation. User data such as email addresses and other personal information should be restricted on
moderator accounts unless it is essential for them to see it
Recommendations
 Ensure you are registered as a “Data Controller”

 Have regular checks of your database and clear out old data
 Review your systems regularly to ensure data is being stored securely. You also have to ensure
suppliers who have access to or are responsible for holding data are compliant
 If you want to use data you collect for more than the most basic purposes, check the law
Further Reading
Useful Links
Information Commissioner's website:

http://www.ico.gov.uk/
The Information Commissioner's Office has launched a consultation on new guidance governing online privacy:
(Consultation closes on 5th March 2010) http://ico-consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/cop/pio?pointId=1061680
References
2 Data Protection Act 1998 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1998/ukpga_19980029_en_1
3 The Privacy and Electronic Communications (EC Directive) Regulations 2003 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/SI/si2003/20032426.htm
4 Deutsche Welle “German teachers irked by students’ online evaluation” http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,2718572,00.html, 5Aug 2007
5 http://www.saferinternet.org/web/guest/safer-internet-day

UGC and the law
DEFAMATION
“ ”
An issue that's particularly difficult for NHS Choices is managing sensitive comments
made in our GP practice and hospital reviews area on issues such as 'medical negligence'
and malpractice. We don't want to reject out of hand, but also have to protect NHS staff
and hospitals from defamation.
John Robinson [1]
Defamation is damage to another's reputation. Defamatory statements can be either libel, which is written,
or slander, which is spoken. If you host UGC, you have a risk of being sued for content you didn't create.
Section 1(1) of the Defamation Act 1996, whereby a defence can include showing they were not the
author/ editor/ publisher of the statement, took reasonable care, and had no knowledge of a defamatory
statement, can offer some protection from legal action.
Definition
“Any statement which hurts an individual’s reputation.”
The Law
There is one key act regulating defamation
The Defamation Act 1996 Last updated in 1996, the Act covers some specific internet principles, but look to
[2] previous trial outcomes for further examples of social media permeations.

UGC and the law
In The News
Michael Keith-Smith, a former UKIP

candidate, sued Tracy Williams after a
debate on a Yahoo! Message board turned
ugly.
Keith-Smith won the case establishing it as
the first successful British prosecution of an
individual in a chat room (not a site owner or
ISP). [3]
2008 Research by YouGov found three

quarters of internet users who
comment online realise they could be
breaking libel laws.
Only one in three said they’d read the

terms and conditions of a site. [4]

UGC and the law
 You could be held responsible for anything posted on your site
 A website or an ISP is usually seen in law as a publisher. If the website is moderated, you may also be
an editor
 If a defamation claim is made, the website, ISP, and writer can potentially all be sued
 While an internet audience may initially be very small, the persistence of content, links etc means that
it can have permanent and much larger reach
 An audience of one is enough to make a claim possible; greater numbers can increase the size of
damages awarded
 As with copyright, the fact that 'someone else published it first' is not a defence. So copying, repeating
or forwarding libelous remarks can make you guilty of libel
Recommendations
The Defamation Act 1996 protects publishers if they “took reasonable care in relation to ...publication”.
 Have a complaints policy and procedure
 Be prompt in removing any material that provokes a complaint
 Have clear monitoring policies and ensure staff are aware of the issues
 Provide clear guidance and 'rules of play' to discourage defamation by users
Further Reading
References
1 John Robinson, NHS Choices, February 2010
2 Defamation Act 1996 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/Acts/acts1996/ukpga_19960031_en_1
3 A Sherwin “Chat room insults lead to internet libel” http://technology.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/tech_and_web/article743902.ece, 22 Mar
2006
4 A Bloxham “Half of web users’ support bloggers code” http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/1952976/Half-of-web-users-support-bloggers-
code.html, 13 May 2008

UGC and the law
ABUSE, HATE CRIMES, AND TERRORISM
“ ”
If you edit or run a group or community, even if you're not responsible for the hosting of
content (such as a Flickr group), then choosing not to exercise control and ignoring
requests to remove defamatory or illegal content would not be a defence to any claims
brought against you.
[1]
Danvers Baillieu
Most hate, violent, or extremist content online tends to be offensive rather than illegal but more extreme
examples may be removed by police order and some sites even blocked.
“ This is also about empowering individuals to tell them how they can make a civic
challenge against material that they find offensive, even if it is not illegal. The internet is
not a lawless forum and should reflect the legal and accepted boundaries of society. ”
Lord West [2]
A recent pilot scheme launched 1st February 2010 by the Home Office to help the public report suspected
terror-related and violent extremist websites to the police indicates the government may more proactively
exercising powers of take-down as covered under section 3 of the Terrorism Act 2006.
The UK has been countering terrorism since 1969 and recent terrorist activity since the start of the
millennium means anti-terror and extremism laws often clearly include references to online.
Definition
“A hate crime is any criminal offence that is motivated by hostility or prejudice based upon the
victim’s disability, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or gender words. This includes
pictures, videos, and even music.”
“Terrorism could broadly be defined as committing violent criminal acts usually with the aim of
attaining political or ideological goals.”

UGC and the law
Laws and guidance
The right to freedom of speech is strongly protected meaning that most offensive content online is not
actually illegal. For hate or violent content to be illegal it would most likely have to be covered by the
Terrorism Acts. We have further broken down examples of these:
Made it illegal to possess or share information that could be useful to terrorists,

The Terrorism Acts 2000
share information that urges people to commit or help with acts of terrorism or,
and 2006 [3] glorifying (praising) terrorism decision.
Any information that is intended to be useful to terrorists is illegal, including:

 bomb-making instructions
Illegal terrorism content  guides to making poisons
 instructions on how to make weapons
 guides to targets
Some violent extremist content is also illegal. This includes:

 videos of beheadings with messages of ‘glorification’ or praise for the
Illegal violent extremist attackers
content  speeches or essays calling for racial or religious violence
 messages intended to stir up hatred against any religious or ethnic group
 chat forums with postings calling for people to commit acts of terrorism
Illegal hate content includes:

 messages calling for racial or religious violence
 web pages that show pictures, videos or descriptions of violence against
Illegal hate content
anyone due to their race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or gender
identity
 chat forums where people ask other people to commit hate crimes

UGC and the law
In The News
In early 2010 Teeside police vowed to clamp

down on hate crimes due to recent targeting
through social networks.
Matt Fowler of the Safer Middlesborough
Partnership said “We also have evidence of the
internet being exploited by those who want to
spread messages of hate.” [4]
In February 2010 a conviction from 2007

under the Terrorism Acts was overturned.
Mohammed Atif Siddique had been charged

in relation to viewing and disseminating
information online. His lawyers claimed the
ruling as a victory for freedom of speech. [5]

UGC and the law
 Most hateful or violent website content is not illegal
 If you have editorial responsibilities you should remove illegal comments or content as soon as you
know about it
 You should report illegal content to both the police and Home Office
 The Terrorism Act says that hosts would need to take down content of concern within two days of
receiving a take-down notice from the police. This includes re-postings and copies of similar material
 Website administrators must be clearly contactable
 If a host is found to be 'endorsing' terrorist material, (which includes failure to remove it within two
days) the maximum penalty is seven years in prison
 You may be asked by the police to hand over personal data you have stored about users
 Be aware the public may report content they find offensive but is not necessarily illegal
Recommendations
 Your own Terms & Conditions can help you cover offensive content, empowering you to remove
content and ban users if breaching your own standards of acceptability
 Have clear monitoring policies and ensure staff are aware of the issues
 Have good reporting processes in place including easy-to-use “report this” buttons alongside content
where applicable or there is a high level of risk
Further reading
Useful Links
DirectGov Reporting Hate, Extremism, and Terrorism online:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/CrimeJusticeAndTheLaw/Counterterrorism/DG_183993
References
8 Danvers Baillieu , Solicitor for Winston & Strawn, Feb 2010
9 Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Security and Counter Terrorism, 1 Feb 2010 http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/about-us/news/reporting-
terrorist-material.html
10 Terrorism Act 2000 and 2006 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2000/ukpga_20000011_en_1 ,
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2006/ukpga_20060011_en_1
11 L Richardson “Claims of hate crime over social networks”
http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/4852677.Claims_of_hate_crime_over_social_networks/ , 15 Jan 2010
12 “Laws should not criminalise Muslims for thought crimes” http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/crime-courts/laws-should-not-criminalise-
muslims-for-thought-crime-1.1005031 , 9 Feb 2010

UGC and the law
HARASSMENT AND CYBER-BULLYING
They would create an alias, pretend to be me, then send abusive messages to others.
“
They left messages on my web page calling me a slag or a slapper, then created online
groups dedicated to calling me names. They covered my internet page with swearwords
”
and took the mickey out of my appearance. It made me feel really angry and depressed
but I didn't want to delete my Bebo page. I have the right to be online as much as
anyone.
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/woman/real_life/2564956/Three- Kiri Fuller [1]

victims-talk-about-cyber-bullying.html#ixzz0fz44nzmS
Harassment can impact children and young people differently from adults. While adults are more able to
seek advice and take action, young people may put up with abuse and bullying for complex reasons.
Legal responsibilities of a site owner, publisher, or editor to prevent harassment are pretty much non-
existent and it’s up to the individual who claims they are being harassed to take action against the
individual or individuals who’s conduct is in question. Child protection groups in the UK are campaigning
across the board for greater protection of children online, particularly in social networking environments,
and similar cyber bullying discussions are taking place in the US.
Content which is discriminatory based on age, race, gender etc. is covered by a number of Acts.
Definition
“Unwanted conduct that violates a person’s dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading,
humiliating or offensive environment.”
Laws and guidance
Freedom of Speech rights are strongly protected in Europe meaning that most offensive content online is
not actually illegal. Acts potentially related to online harassment are
Primarily created to provide protection from stalkers. The person pursuing the
Protection from
course of conduct called in to question must know, or ought to know, their
Harassment Act 1997 [2] behaviour amounts to harassment.
Part 1 of the Criminal

Justice & Public Order Act Outlines the offence of causing intentional harassment, alarm or distress.
1994 [3]
Sex Discrimination Act

1975, Race Relations Act
Can have legal application to harassing behaviour.
1976, Disability
Discrimination Act 1995 [4]

UGC and the law
In The News
A California Court ruled that a school went too

far in suspending a student who allegedly
posted a bullying video on YouTube.
The decision was based on the act being outside
school activities and a person’s right to free
speech. (Online commentators wondered where
defamation might apply in a case like this). [5]
Also in the US, Congresswoman Sanchez,

is leading a bill to combat cyberbullying.
Free speech campaigners and many

online writers are opposed to the bill
which is seen as too broad and could
potentially make it illegal to criticise or
make fun of anybody online. [6]

UGC and the law
 Content which is discriminatory should be removed once noticed
 Failure to protect children and vulnerable people from harassment, while not legally enforceable, could
attract critical attention and the digital industry is under pressure to improve self-regulation
 Common sense should prevail, persistent or extreme intimidation is best removed from UGC
environments you manage while test cases are still being brought against site owners and managers
 Don’t confuse abuse with defamation or libel
Recommendations
 Have a clear community policy and Terms of Use
 In youth communities, go further, provide protection in the form of moderators and community
managers as well as a clear, easy-to-use, complaints process for users
Further Reading
Useful Links
Need 2 Know
http://www.need2know.co.uk/relationships/bullying/article.html/id=1131
References
1 Kiri Fuller, “Three victims talk about cyber bullying” http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/woman/real_life/2564956/Three-victims-talk-
about-cyber-bullying.html, 31 Jul 2009
2 Protection from Harassment Act 1997 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1997/ukpga_19970040_en_1
3 Criminal Justice & Public Order Act 1994 Chapter 33, Part I http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1994/ukpga_19940033_en_1
4 Sexual Discrimination Act 1975 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1975/PDF/ukpga_19750065_en.pdf, Race Relations Act 1976
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/SI/si2003/20031626.htm, Disability Discrimination Act 1995
http://direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/RightsAndObligations/DisabilityRights/DG_4001068
5 V Kim “Students’ right to be nasty on net upheld” http://www.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/students-right-to-be-nasty-on-net-
upheld-20091214-ksdj.html, 15 Dec 2009
6 B Johnson “US Cyberbully bill ‘a threat to free speech’” http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2009/may/06/cyberbullying-bill, 6 May 2009

UGC and the law
OBSCENITY
“ ”
Not only does the nature of the content we deal with continue to evolve but the political
and public environment in which we operate is becoming increasingly focussed on
combating internet criminality. This attention means regulatory models for combating
illegal online content are coming under more intense scrutiny.
Professor Ian Walden [1]
Of most relevance to the interactive environment are the 2008 updates to the Criminal Justice and
Immigration Bill. For the first time Laws and guidance extended criminal liability for the possession of
extremely graphic images from the publisher to the consumer.
While obscene content has always been illegal, attention has focused towards the online world and social
networking where content can easily be published and shared. Legislation in this area is being strongly
driven by child protection groups.
The unknowing site host could encounter these laws unexpectedly, as seen in 2008 when UK access to a
Wikipedia page was blocked by watchdog the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF).
Definition
“An article is obscene if it’s intended to corrupt or deprave persons exposed to it.”
Laws and guidance
Criminal Justice and Refers to the possession of an extreme pornographic image, indecent
Immigration Act 2008 [2] photography of children, and publication of obscene articles.
Obscene Publications Act

Outlines publishing restrictions.
1959 [3]

UGC and the law
In The News
At the end of 2008 the UK’s access to a

Wikipedia page was blocked by the IWF.
The organization had taken exception to an
album image of a prepubescent girl. After
discussion with the Wikimedia Foundation,
and the undue attention the image began to
receive, the decision was reversed. [4]
The 2008 updates to the Criminal Justice Act

were opposed by communities.
People involved in bondage, discipline, and

sado-masochism felt they may become
unfairly criminalised. [5]

UGC and the law
 Laws are focused on distribution and consumption of obscenity
 Take-down notices must be responded to in a timely fashion
Recommendations
 Robust Terms and Conditions in place and easy reporting processes for users
 A policy and process in place to acknowledge and act on these reports within an appropriate time
frame
 In youth communities, go further, provide protection in the form of moderators and community
managers as well as a clear, easy-to-use, complaints process for users
Further Reading
Useful Links
Internet Watch Foundation:

http://www.iwf.org.uk/
Child Exploitation and Online Protection office:

http://www.ceop.gov.uk/
Who is hosting this?

http://www.whoishostingthis.com/
References
1 Professor Ian Walden, IWF Independent Vice-Chair http://www.iwf.org.uk/media/page.86.htm Apr 2009
2 Criminal Justice and Immigration Act Part 5 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2008/ukpga_20080004_en_9
3 Obscene Publications Act 1959 http://www.statutelaw.gov.uk/content.aspx?activeTextDocId=
4 S Musil “U.K. Internet watchdog backtracks on Wikipedia ban” http://news.cnet.com/8301-1023_3-10119879-93.html, 9 Dec 2008
5 C Summers “’Extreme’ porn proposals spark row” http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/6237226.stm, 4 Jul 2007

UGC and the law
CHILD PROTECTION
“ You should recognise that children generally have a lower level of understanding than
adults, and so notices explaining...should be appropriate to their level... the language of
the explanation should be clear and appropriate to the age group the website is aimed at. ”
Information Commissioner [1]
In the US there is specific legislation directed at the protection of young people online in the form of the
Child Online Privacy Protection Act ("COPPA") but, as yet, no equivalent in UK law.
There have been a number of indications from the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport that it
believes formalised regulation is both necessary and inevitable and there was even talk of a
Communications Act but nothing has been confirmed.
While the Data Protection, Protection of Children, and Sexual Offenses Act protect children both on and
offline, the unique nature of interactive environments has made things a little unclear.
Of note, on 12 October 2009, amendments to the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 came into
force. The moderation of internet chat rooms and anything deemed “a public electronic interactive
communication service” likely to be used “wholly or mainly by children” became a regulated activity.
Anyone undertaking such activity needs to comply with the associated vetting and barring scheme.
Definition
“The protection of young people from exploitation, both sexually and commercially.”
Laws and guidance
Laws which could apply to Child Protection
While not specifically referring to young people the Information Commissioner's

Office (responsible for implementing legislation) indicated: “Websites that collect
information from children must have stronger safeguards in place to make sure
Data Protection Act 1998
[2] any processing is fair. . . If you ask a child to provide personal information you
need consent from a parent or guardian, unless it is reasonable to believe the child
clearly understands what is involved and they are capable of making an informed
decision.”
Designed to make it illegal to 'groom' children, which is when adults approach

children with the intention of committing a sexual offence. It includes grooming
Sexual Offences Act 2003
[3] activities in online environments. Under the Act it is an offence for anybody over
18 to befriend a person younger than 16 and then meet or intend to meet that
young person anywhere in the world with the intention of sexually abusing them.

UGC and the law
(1978) Prohibits the creation and distribution of indecent photographs of children.

Protection of Children Acts
[4]
(1999) This stipulates employers have to report any misconduct in the area of
child protection by employees.
Safeguarding Children and

Updated October 2009 to include vetting and barring procedures for moderators
Vulnerable Groups Act
of online message boards and interactive environments.
2006 [5]
Safer Social Networking Best practice guidelines for brands and service providers in the area of child safety
Principles for the EU [6] in interactive environments.
Children's Online Privacy US websites collecting information from children under the age of thirteen are
Protection Act of 1998 [7] required to comply with United States Federal Law.

UGC and the law
In The News
2008 lawsuit filed by US Federal Govt against

Sony Music Entertainment for improperly
accepting registrations from users under 13.
Sony paid a $1 million dollar civil penalty and
agreed to improve processes. [8]
During late 2007 and 2008 the media

reported stories about teen parties
which had been trashed by gatecrashers.
Following this news story further news

articles began a debate about some
central safety issues including, hacked
accounts, keeping passwords safe and the
need for parents to become familiar with
their teens online activities. [9]

UGC and the law
 The government is encouraging service providers to take on greater responsibilities when children are
using their sites. This is likely to evolve into legislation over time.
 Websites will be subject to independent review to ensure they are meeting UKCCIS standards
 Employees taking on moderation where children are involved must comply with vetting procedures
 Employees are not entitled to access personal data records as a matter of course
 Site functionality like data collection and reporting abuse must be age appropriate
Recommendations
We recommend if you are hosting any user info:

 Make a risk assessment if your service or interaction specifically targets children and young people
 Advice includes having escalation procedures and training staff in identifying abusive behaviour
 Follow the guidance
Further Reading
Useful Links
Internet Task Force on Child Protection:

http://www.ceop.gov.uk/
UK Council for Child Internet Safety:

http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/ukccis/
References
1 Information Commissioner
http://www.ico.gov.uk/upload/documents/library/data_protection/practical_application/collecting_personal_information_from_websites_v1.
0.pdf, 5 Jul 2007
2 Practical Application to the Data Protection Act, Collecting personal information
http://www.ico.gov.uk/upload/documents/library/data_protection/practical_application/collecting_personal_information_from_websites_v1.
0.pdf, 5 Jul 2007
3 Guide to the Sexual Offences Act 2003 http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/documents/adults-safe-fr-sex-harm-leaflet.html
4 Protection of Children Acts 1978 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/RevisedStatutes/Acts/ukpga/1978/cukpga_19780037_en_ 1, 1999
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1999/ukpga_19990014_en_1
5 Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2006/ukpga_20060047_en_1
6 Safer Social Networking Principles for the EU http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/activities/social_networking/docs/sn_principles.pdf 10
Feb 2009
7 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 http://www.ftc.gov/privacy/privacyinitiatives/childrens.html
8 E Hughes, “Sony sued in US child protection case” http://www.theinquirer.net/inquirer/news/1049992/sony-sued-in-us-child-protection-case,
11 Dec 2008
th
9 J Mills “Couple’s £1.5m house trashed after hundreds of Facebook gatecrashers storm daughter’s 16 birthday party”
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1091124/Couples-1-5m-house-trashed-hundreds-Facebook-gatecrashers-storm-daughters-16th-
birthday-party.html ,3 Dec 2008

UGC and the law
COPYRIGHT, TRADEMARKS AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
“ ”
If you are running any sort of competition or activity which involves users submitting
content, in particular image or video based, you need to be clear in what you are doing
with that content and ensure it is covered in your T&Cs. You need to consider what rights
the users retain in their entries and what rights you have. For example, you might want to
use entries for subsequent marketing activity. At a minimum, you should ensure you have
the right to display and retain the entries, as with any other UGC.
Intellectual Property has been a very hot issue on the internet in recent years. Great numbers of lawsuits
have been filed in attempts to stop the wild spread of creative material. There are moves to bring much
stronger regulation to the internet; last year the EU set-up the European Observatory for Counterfeiting
and Piracy, and ratified the WIPO Copyright Treaty and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty.
These treaties and a controversial Digital Economy Bill [2] that is going through UK Parliament at the
moment, aim to greatly strengthen the powers of the authorities to prevent copyright infringements on the
net.
Definition
“Intellectual Property is the ‘creations of the mind’ - whether industrial property (trademarks,
patents and industrial designs) or Copyright (artistic and literary works).”
Laws and guidance
Copyright, Designs and

Also known as the CDPA, this forms the basis of copyright law.
Patents Act 1988 [3]
UK Trade Marks Act 1994

[4] The law governing trademarks in the UK.
Directive 2000/31/EC of
the European Parliament
The basic legal framework for electronic commerce in the Internal Market.
'Directive on electronic
commerce' [5]
Creative Commons is a not-for-profit organisation which provides creative licenses

Creative Commons [6] for users to mark creative works and specify other users’ rights to use; both
personally and commercially.

UGC and the law
In The News
Photographer Richard Giles was at the centre of

controversy when the International Olympic
Committee (IOC) sent take-down notices to Flickr
users who posted pictures of the Olympic Games.
The IOC strictly prohibits photography at their

events. Olympic identifications such as the Olympic
rings, the emblems, mascots, use of the word
‘Olympic’, and imagery of the games belongs to the
IOC and cannot be used without written consent. [7]
A US Court dismissed damages claims against

YouTube by the Premier league.
The judged ruled that copyright damages were

not available for foreign unregistered material. [8]

UGC and the law
 Copyright protection is automatic. No contract needs to be signed for a creator to have entitlement to
control how their work is distributed
 However, if you register your works it could make it easier to protect it
 Copyright can only apply to words, pictures or an actual thing. It can't apply to ideas
 Typical risk areas for UGC are hosting video that uses unlicensed music, and the use of branded or
trademark characters as avatars
 Users will have copyright over original content they themselves create or upload to your site
 If users are posting illegally copied content the EU E-Commerce Directive may protect you so long as
you are not encouraging this practice and you respond quickly to any take down notices
 It is the quality, not the quantity of the content that is looked at in court, e.g. Tweets are not too short
to infringe copyright
Recommendations
In general:
 If wanting to use content submitted by users it’s best to have lawyers create your Terms of Use
 Ensure users accept the terms and know they have done so – having to tick a checkbox or some other
action before they can load creative content
 If you plan to re-use or distribute user's own creative content, make sure they know the details of the
licence and agree to it first – for example, if running a photo competition.
 Act promptly to take down any potentially infringing material as soon as you hear about it
 Take care when using content under Creative Commons – it’s not a license to use everything for free

UGC and the law
Further Reading
Useful Links
European Observatory for Counterfeiting and Piracy:

http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/iprenforcement/observatory/index_en.htm
UK Intellectual Property Office consultation (available for feedback until 31 Mar 2010)
http://www.ipo.gov.uk/pro-policy/consult/consult-live/consult-gowers2.htm
The World Intellectual Property Organisation:

http://www.wipo.int/portal/index.html.en
UK Copyright Service:
http://www.copyrightservice.co.uk/
References
14 Digital Economy Bill, http://services.parliament.uk/bills/2009-10/digitaleconomy.html Current status
15 Copyright, Designs, and Patents Act http://www.opsi.gov.uk/Acts/acts1988/ukpga_19880048_en_2
16 UK Trade Marks Act 1994 http://www.ipo.gov.uk/tmact94.pdf
17 Directive 2000/31/EC of the European Parliament ‘Directive on electronic Commerce’ http://eur-
lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CELEX:32000L0031:EN:HTML
18 Creative Commons http://creativecommons.org/
19 T Hawk “Richard Giles changes Olympic Flickr photos from Creative Commons to All Rights Reserved” http://thomashawk.com/2009/10/richard-
giles-changes-his-olympic-flickr-photos-from-creative-commons-to-all-rights-reserved.html, 14 Oct 2009
20 “YouTube wins partial dismissal of copyright damages claims in football copyright case”
http://www.brandrepublic.com/News/918615/YouTube-wins-partial-dismissal-damages-claims-football-copyright-case , 8 Jul 2009

UGC and the law
COMPETITIONS
When running competitions online there are several risks to be alert to. You must comply with Data
Protection and Copyright laws for user-submitted content but in addition running an illegal lottery is a
criminal offence. Check before launching a prize promotion and get legal advice if needed.
Definition
“Competition will not be a lottery if it has a substantial skill element designed to either deter or
limit the number of entries and prize winners.”
Laws and guidance
The UK Gambling Act 2005

[1] Clearly outlines definitions, requirements, and the consequences of breaches.
33.1 Promoters should take legal advice before embarking on promotions with
CAP Code - Sales prizes, including competitions, prize draws, instant win offers and premium-
[2]
Promotions Rules payment promotions, to ensure that the mechanisms involved do not make them
unlawful lotteries.
 For UK businesses running an illegal lottery is a criminal offence
 Laws also vary in different countries so take this into account
 Ensure you are complying with Data Protection & Copyright rules if collecting user's data
Recommendations
In general:
 Have clear rules and conditions which are created or reviewed by your legal advisors
 Clearly state which time zone you refer to when publishing competition closing times
 You may want to restrict participation to particular countries to avoid jurisdiction issues
Further Reading
References
1 The UK Gambling Act 2005 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2005/ukpga_20050019_en_1
2 Non-Broadcast Code (CAP Code) - sales promotions rules http://bcap.org.uk/The-Codes/CAP-Code/CAP-Code-
Item.aspx?q=CAP+Code_Sales+Promotion+Rules_33++Prize+promotions+and+the+law
3 Facebook Promotions Guidelines http://www.facebook.com/promotions_guidelines.php, 22 Dec 2009
UGC and the law
In The News
At the end of 2009 Facebook amended its

Promotions Guidelines.
The move is believed to be an attempt to crack

down on poorly run and illegal competitions
on the popular social network. [3]

UGC and the law
MARKETING AND ADVERTISING
“ ”
There is no single, transparent set of standards and procedures that govern modern
integrated marketing techniques. Traditional media distinctions have become impossibly
blurred. Different bodies regulate different marketing practices and they are all
struggling to catch up with digital marketing practice. Verifying a child's age online and
understanding and regulating children's privacy rights in relation to passive data
collection are particularly thorny issues.
Agnes Nairn [1]
In the UK, there are a set of Codes governing Marketing and Advertising, backed up by EU legislation. These codes
apply equally online and offline but are harder to control on the internet.
Recently it’s been suggested that if the industry doesn’t self-regulate better a government organisation, such as
Ofcom, may be given the remit to police online. This was echoed in a speech from David Cameron in January 2010
warning marketers to "show more restraint in the way they operate" [2] or face further regulation.
Most complaints about websites from the public in the UK relate to content on sites, rather than ads. At the moment,
website content is not considered to count as advertising, but there are moves to extend the rules to cover any
marketing claims online. The ASA could start regulating website content as early as the second half of 2010.
Definition
“’Sharp practices’ such as such as misleading and aggressive marketing, are prohibited throughout
the EU. A commercial practice is ‘aggressive’ if it significantly impairs the consumer's choice
through harassment, coercion or undue influence. ‘Undue influence’ results from a trader
exploiting a position of power.”
Laws and guidance

A general ban on “unfair practices” exists to ensure resilience in fast evolving markets.
Consumer Protection from

Unfair Trading Regulations UK regulations applying to both on-and off-line activity.
2008 [3]
Business Protection from

Protects predominantly from misleading advertising but commercial social media
Misleading Marketing
activity could also be classified under these regulations.
Regulations 2008 [4]
The British Code of

Advertising, Sales The Codes of Practice governing the industry and administered independently by
Promotion and Direct the Advertising Standards Authority.
Marketing (CAP Codes) [5]

UGC and the law
1984 European Directive

on Misleading Advertising
(Directive 84/450/EEC) EU regulations applying to both on-and off-line activity.
(Directive 2005/29/EC) [6]
Outlines ‘sharp practices’ which will be prohibited throughout the EU, such as
EU Unfair Commercial
misleading and aggressive marketing. Updated in 2007 to include things like
Practices Directive 2005 [7] ‘astroturfing’.
The Privacy and Electronic

Communications (EC The ICO has guidance for marketers on this directive, it mainly effects email
Directive) Regulations marketing but could relate to direct contact with consumers via social sites.
2003 [8]

UGC and the law
In The News
Blogstorm's Patrick Altoft identified

some odd comment activity on his own
blog and across the web.
I-Spy search agency immediately issued a

statement claiming responsibility,
apologized to the blogs involved, and put
in internal measures to ensure it
wouldn’t happen again. [9]
1,000 iPhone apps were pulled by Apple in

December 2009 amid claims the developer
had faked positive reviews about their
products.
This was not the first accusation of fake app

reviews in 2009. In the US the Federal Trade
Commission (FTC) are looking to extend their
reach into the blogosphere. [10]

UGC and the law
Regulation
 The ASA and CAP state that they “do not adopt a legalistic attitude towards sanctions and they ensure
that sanctions are proportionate to the nature of the breach...They focus on ensuring that non-
compliant marketing communications are amended, withdrawn or stopped as quickly as possible”
 Marketing and advertisements in all online contexts are subject to exactly the same rules as in all other
media
 The CAP Code applies to advertising in paid-for space, such as display advertising and paid search, as
well as commercial e-mails and sales promotions on websites. If you are accepting paid advertising in
your UGC environment, or using it for data capture and marketing, you must comply
 Laws vary in different territories, and you can in theory be prosecuted in any country where your site
can be accessed
 Viral ‘tell a friend’ type services if not carefully managed could be illegal under the Privacy and
Electronic Communications (EC Directive) Regulations 2003
Faking It
 Code item 22.3 Marketers should not falsely claim or imply that they are acting as consumers or for
purposes outside their trade, business, craft or profession
 Falsely representing a consumer in social media is illegal under the 2008 UK Consumer Protection from
Unfair Trading Regulations
 Astroturfing is when a campaign is run online, with the intention of influencing consumers or politicians
by appearing to be a genuine 'grassroots' movement. Astroturfing is illegal in the UK
 Excessive bias when moderating comments, to favour your brand and remove negative remarks, could
be construed as false advertising, especially if you gives users the impression your platform is for free
and fair comment
Children
 Remember that the advertising restrictions for children are different than for adults

UGC and the law
Recommendations
 Let users know what levels of moderation are being used on your site i.e. deleting negative comments
 Always use permission-based marketing
 If children are likely to access your site, take extra care to be familiar with the marketing regulations for
communicating with children
 Things are moving quickly, watch for regulation updates
 Follow best practice and be responsible. This will help to protect you when reaching into different
countries and for a range of audiences, such as children and vulnerable adults as well as prevent highly
restrictive legislation being brought in to play
Further Reading
Useful Links
Advertising Standards Authority:

http://www.asa.org.uk/
Committee of Advertising Practice:

http://bcap.org.uk
A full list of relevant laws is on the CAP website:

http://bcap.org.uk/The-Codes/CAP-Code/CAP-Code-Item.aspx?q=CAP+Code_Legislation
References
1 Agnes Nairn, Professor of Marketing, Marketing Week http://www.marketingweek.co.uk/news/academic-warns-online-marketing-for-children-
%E2%80%9Calmost-impossible%E2%80%9D-to-police/3008734.article, 14 Jan 2010
2 David Cameron ‘Supporting Parents’ http://www.conservatives.com/News/Speeches/2010/01/David_Cameron_Supporting_parents.aspx, 11
Jan 2010
3 Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2008/draft/ukdsi_9780110811574_en_1
4 Business Protection from Misleading Marketing Regulations 2008 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2008/draft/ukdsi_9780110811475_en_1
5 The British Code of Advertising, Sales Promotion, and Direct Marketing (CAP Codes) http://www.cap.org.uk/The-Codes.aspx
6 1984 European Directive on misleading Advertising Directive http://eur-
lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2006:376:0021:0027:EN:PDF
7 EU Unfair Commercial Practices Directive 2005 http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/cons_int/safe_shop/fair_bus_pract/ucp_en.pdf
8 The Privacy and Electronic Communications (EC Directive) Regulations 2003 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/SI/si2003/20032426.htm
9 P Altoft “Is Nokia guilty of blog comment spamming?” http://www.blogstorm.co.uk/is-nokia-guilty-of-blog-comment-spamming/, 20 Oct 2008
10 B Johnson “Apple blocks 1000 iPhone apps amid astroturfing claims” http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/blog/2009/dec/08/apple-iphone,
8 Dec 2009

UGC and the law
SUMMARY
The difficulties in regulating and legislating online word of mouth reflect how social media
“
dissolves the familiar boundaries between advertising, media, brands and consumers.
”
Branded online presences are „official‟ spaces but users assume they are in control.
A company trying to alter or censor their content can seem intrusive, but appropriate
moderation is that brand‟s right and responsibility. Many of these issues are ethical rather
than legal, which is why they are so thorny. Can we ever truly legislate free speech? This
needs to be an evolving public conversation.
Molly Flatt, WOM UK
To moderate or not to moderate, that is the tricky question. The law is not clearly defined in this area and
the lack of legal precedents here in the UK makes decisions even harder.
Risks (and potential liability) vary across different types of communities, so it’s impossible to create a “one
size fits all” approach.
In general, if you want to run or build an interactive community which will be wholly or mainly used by
young people then you should go above and beyond basic legal requirements and follow the guidance
available. Real legislation now exists in this area to help minimise the risks to our most vulnerable members
of society. New laws are leaving many organisations exposed.
At the very minimum you must have robust (and legally approved) Terms of Use for your site or group, a
clear reporting process, and respond quickly to content reported. Ignorance is no excuse, but your
response to content once aware of it, is key to establishing liability.
Dom Sparkes, MD, Tempero
CREDITS
Thanks to:
Darika Ahrens, Danvers Baillieu, Jon Bishop , Dominic Campbell , Sarah Dixon, Molly Flatt, Rebecca
Maisey, Agnes Nairn , John Robinson, Theresa Santos, Debbie Towersey, Paul Wakely, Kelda Wallis.
For further information:

Tempero Ltd
14-16 Great Portland Street
London W1W 8QW
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7636 1200

Email: hello@tempero.co.uk
Twitter: @temperouk

User-Generated Content and The Law

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

User-Generated Content and The Law

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

UGC and the law

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 1 of 48

To moderate or not to moderate? ............................................................................................................. 4

Getting Personal ..................................................................................................................................... 14

Getting Nasty .......................................................................................................................................... 23

Summary and Credits .............................................................................................................................. 48

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 2 of 48

Working with colleagues in the public sector, there is an understandable level of

Dominic Campbell, FutureGov Consultancy

From Dominic Sparkes, MD of Tempero

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 3 of 48

TO MODERATE OR NOT TO MODERATE?

When preparing to engage in UGC, expect the unexpected and be as comprehensive as

John Robinson, NHS Choices

Jon Bishop, Gumtree

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 4 of 48

Danvers Baillieu [1]

“The geographical region in which a law can be enforced.”

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 5 of 48

A US Games company is currently suing a

If successful the case will have

The National Portrait Gallery in London is

The defendant argues UK copyright law is

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 6 of 48

What You Need To Know

 You cannot protect yourself in all jurisdictions

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 7 of 48

Baroness Scotland [1]

1. Statutory contempt of court criminalises the publication of material

2. Common law contempt targets any other action which is intended to

Electronic Commerce (EC

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 8 of 48

Throughout the Baby P trial

This and other similar incidents

In 2001 ISP Demon Internet successfully

Previously Demon had been the first ISP sued

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 9 of 48

What You Need To Know

 You must respond to a take-down order in a timely fashion

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 10 of 48

EMPLOYEE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

Danvers Baillieu [1]

Debbie Towersey [2]

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 11 of 48

Vodafone UK shocked everyone by

The company confirmed their

In June 2009 the HabitatUK twitter feed

Habitat publically apologized saying the tweets

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 12 of 48

What You Need To Know

 A company will normally be held responsible for content posted by an employee

NMK: Rough Guide to social media and the law:

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 13 of 48

Law and guidance

The UK adheres to Article 8 of the ECHR, which protects privacy robustly.

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 14 of 48

Two Germans convicted of murder in

Facebook are continually pushing the

They are currently defending several claims in

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 15 of 48

What You Need To Know

Liberty – Your Rights

We stay up at night so you don’t have to © Tempero Ltd 2010 / Page 16 of 48