Image Rights Protection refers to the right of an individual (both private and public) to control the use of their face, photo, or likeness. In the digital age, the unauthorized use of photos and videos is widespread. Companies often use people's photos for advertising without consent, media outlets publish footage of private life, and fake profiles are created on social networks using others' photos ("catfishing"). In Georgia, the right to one's image is part of personality rights, and its violation incurs civil liability. This service is particularly relevant for models, influencers, and public figures whose image has commercial value, but it also protects ordinary citizens from the unauthorized use of their photos.
What does the Image Rights Protection service cover?
The service aims to prevent unauthorized use and secure compensation:
- Stopping Illegal Advertising: If a company used your photo on a billboard or social media without consent, the lawyer demands cessation and payment of fees.
- Combating Deepfakes: Detecting and removing AI-generated fake images (using your face) from platforms.
- Deleting Fake Profiles: Blocking accounts on social networks created using your photos.
- Media Published Photos: Demanding removal if the media published your photo in a private setting without public interest.
- Compensation: Seeking compensation for moral and material damages (commercial value of the image) through the courts.
Common Scenarios and Needs
Problems often arise in these cases: Photo Theft: An online store uses an influencer's photo wearing a specific outfit to sell their products. Dating Sites: Scammers use a person's photos on dating sites to extort money. Paparazzi Photos: A celebrity's photo taken in a hospital or at home, violating private space. Employee Photos: A company continues to use a former employee's photos on its website after their dismissal.
Georgian Legislation and Regulations
Image rights are protected by Article 18 of the Civil Code of Georgia. Publishing a person's image (photo, film, video) is allowed only with their consent. Exceptions include cases where the person is a public figure, the photo was taken at a public event, or the person received a fee for posing. Also, the Law on Personal Data Protection treats a photo as personal data (and biometric photos as special category data), processing of which without grounds is prohibited. Regarding deepfakes, legislation is evolving, but existing norms already allow for a response.
Step-by-Step Process
The first step is documenting the fact. The lawyer collects evidence showing the use of the image (billboard, website). Then a warning letter is sent to the violator demanding cessation and compensation. If it is advertising material, the claimed amount is calculated based on standard advertising rates. If the violator refuses, a lawsuit is filed. In the case of social networks, a complaint (Report) is concurrently sent to the platform administration regarding intellectual property or personal data violations.
Why Legal.ge?
Your face is your property. Legal.ge offers lawyers specializing in intellectual property and personality rights. We will help you receive due compensation for the commercial use of your image and stop its illegal dissemination. Protect your visual identity with Legal.ge.
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