How To Minimize Your Social Media Liability
Social media accounts are all the rage these days for businesses. It’s an effective way to market your brand without spending tons of money. Most importantly, social media platforms place businesses in contact with customers in real-time; it’s brilliant! However, there are some caveats you should keep in mind to minimize liability and prevent your business from spending millions in court.
Only Share Other’s Work with Expressed Permission
In the digital age, everything is at your fingertips. From articles to graphics, whatever you need you can find with a Google search. Although what you may want someone’s content for your next Facebook post, you shouldn’t post it without expressed permission from the owner of the content.
Copyright and trademark laws still abound, even in the digital age. In fact, with everything digital, it’s easier than ever for someone to track who is using their content without permission. If you are found using another person’s content without their permission, then you could be fined. Copyright infringement laws impose fines starting from $200 to $150,000 per infringement. If your business is guilty of this, you could cripple your business financially quickly.
Know Federal Laws Associated with Giveaways and Contests
Contests and giveaways are great ways to gain recognition for your brand. Not only will you attract current users, but with the right contests, you can attract new customers as well. Everyone loves the possibility of getting free stuff, but there are federal rules and requirements that must be met to have a legal contest and giveaway. For instance, offering entry into the contest in exchange for likes could be considered “consideration,” which could change your giveaway to a bona fide illegal lottery.
You should speak with our legal team at RB Legal before you create a contest, giveaway, or sweepstakes. Our team will help you determine how to construct your promotion so that you are not in violation of any laws.
Stick to the Facts
It’s easy to tweet something in a fit of rage, and then become remorseful of that tweet only moments later when it comes to personal tweets. Although the ramifications of mistweeting on your personal account aren’t significant, doing so on your business account can be life-changing. For instance, if you defame a competitor or their product or tweet inaccurate information that your customers rely on then you could be held responsible for defamation or negligence.
At RB Legal, we are your partners in business, even when it comes to your social media accounts. Our goal is to ensure that your business remains compliant with the laws, rules, and regulations of this nation. If you need counsel, or you want to learn more about ways you expose your business to legal risks, give us a call today.