The internet has transformed modern business; every commercial concern uses a website to promote its business and some sell directly from the internet to the consumer. If the business is located in the UK then its website is subject to UK law even if the website is hosted elsewhere.

A website is merely a different way to do business, to promote and sell. Even if the website is doing no direct selling, it is still subject to the legal regulations of selling and promotion that apply everywhere. It is important to have knowledge of those regulations. Similarly data protection laws apply to anyone using the website to create a database of clients, or possible interested parties.

“Trade descriptions” is probably the sector that has received the most attention over the years in retailing and it applies equally to the high street store and the website. It is essential that the description of any goods being marketed is accurate and that no exaggerated claims are made.

Copyright law is international and it is important to only use text and imaging that is not in direct personal ownership if you have permission to do so. Ownership of design features, photographs and script belongs to the originators and it is important to have a written agreement of the transfer of those rights if you do not want the originators to use the same things elsewhere. In most instances that agreement is made before a job is commissioned and it might be wise to look elsewhere if an originator is unwilling to agree to your request for the rights.

There are regular instances of companies seeking redress for websites offering their material for download even though they have no ownership rights. It is very worthwhile to double check if you are falling into that same mistake.

To summarise a website needs to be produced in line with the law of the land. Its owners bear responsibility for its content which must not contravene any law whether it relates to sales or things such as libel. There are many websites that promote points of view, pressure groups stating their case on everything from the environment to financial issues. They invite comment but must ensure that a moderator is in place to remove libellous comment because ultimately the website will be responsible if that libellous content is not removed.