Using the likenesses of a real person in a game app

Question

Hi there!

My team and I have launched our game design startup just recently. For or a new game app, we would like to use the names and likenesses of real people, notably celebrities and politicians. Are we generally allowed to do that? How do we avoid legal problems? I appreciate any assistance.

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Answers: 2 public & 1 private

Lawrence lau
IP Broker

Nope ... celebrity rights are well protected, especially coming from Hollywood. You might be able to claim politicians under staire (fair dealings or fair use) but as a for profit game it'd be hard to justify. Simplest way to avoid litigation (apart from hiding in PRC) is to allow users to upload skins/texture maps and let them do the infringing/clearance but be prepared to follow take-down notices if you want safe-harbor protection.

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