Google is not liable as operator of a search engine when it displays websites with content that hurt privacy rights of third parties. This was decided by Federal Supreme Court (BGH) in an appeal process and thus joins view of Prejudicial authority (AZ. VI ZR 489/16).

In this case, it was a question of wher Google had to block links to websites where plaintiffs were defamed and exposed in ir view. Had sued a couple, owner of a company for IT services. The two had helped to set up an internet forum. In course of discussions, plaintiffs were personally blamed and insulted online for some statements and comments. They wanted to claim that certain claims and insults on Internet could no longer be found.

The BGH thus follows view of upper Oberlandesgericht of Cologne, according to which a search engine operator can only be obliged to block links if alleged infringement is clearly recognizable. The person concerned should be informed in detail about violation of law. The mere listing of links in question with reference to violation of personal rights is not sufficient for this, it was already said in judgment of Cologne judges.

Date Of Update: 28 February 2018, 12:03