Client Alert
By Attorney Brian Thomas
September 19, 2024
There’s been an uptick in businesses targeted by so-called “copyright trolls”. Trolls use search technology to locate unauthorized uses of images on the Internet, and on that basis threaten copyright infringement lawsuits with the hope of extracting settlement payments. Often the claim is dubious – and the infringement unintentional – but the troll seeks a nuisance settlement in an amount more than it could recover in court, but less than what it would cost the business to defend itself.
If targeted by a troll, your best approach is to respond only after receiving guidance from experienced legal counsel. Often circumstances exist that skilled counsel can leverage to resolve the matter in your favor. Well-intentioned businesses often squander these advantages by engaging with trolls unassisted.
Sheehan Phinney attorneys have experience dealing with copyright trolls, and are available to assist individuals, businesses and other organizations with these matters. If you are affected, please contact me for a free consultation regarding how best to respond.
This article is intended to serve as a summary of the issues outlined herein. While it may include some general guidance, it is not intended as, nor is it a substitute for, legal advice.