Although one may have numerous problems pertaining to social networks, in this article, we will discuss five commonly occurring issues, namely, (i) account suspension, (ii) copyright infringement, (iii) trademark infringement, (iv) receiving a negative review, and (v) privacy issues. All those issues will be examined below in more detail.
Account suspension
Social networks may suspend the accounts of their users for various reasons and, in some cases, without a clear reason. If this occurs, it is necessary to carefully examine the situation and to present legal arguments challenging the position of the operator.
Trademark infringement
If someone posted content on a social network that includes your trademark, this may constitute a trademark infringement and the social network operator may, upon request, remove the allegedly infringing content. The request for removal needs to include sufficient information to identify the trademark. For example, you can attach a trademark registration certificate.
Copyright infringement
If you own copyrighted content, a third party may copy it and publish it on a social network. In such a case, it is necessary to send a copyright infringement notice to the social network and request them to remove the infringing content. In some cases, fraudulent third parties submit fake DMCA notices to social networks. If this occurs, you or your legal representative needs to contact the social network as soon as possible and explain them the fraudulent nature of the DMCA notice.
Receiving a negative review
If someone has posted a negative review about your or firm on a social network, you may be able to remove it by contacting the social network and argue that the review is defamatory. However, you need to present clear arguments and evidence proving the defamation. This is because social networks usually respect the right to freedom of expression by the authors and are ready to interfere with that right only in case there is a clear evidence of defamation or other serious legal issues.
Privacy issues
If your personal information was published on a social network, without your permission, this may constitute a violation of the applicable privacy laws (e.g., the General Data Protection Regulation (the GDPR)). A submission of a proper privacy complaint to the social network may lead to the removal of the content at stake. If you are not aware of your privacy rights or have doubts about them, you can contact SN Fighters and we will be glad to explain them to you.