Are you a responsible website owner?

As we reach the end of financial year, we review our client files. In turn, we recommend that our clients conduct a review of their business including their policies, their procedures and their websites. Below are a few ideas to consider as part of your review;

1. Review your Website Privacy Policy
Do you have a Privacy Policy? If so, read it. Ensure that it still reflects your privacy procedures. Check that your actions reflect your promises. Circulate your internal privacy policy and speak with your employees and IT staff. Make any changes you think necessary and have them reviewed by your lawyers.

2. Review your Website Terms of Use
Do you have a Terms of Use document? If so, make sure that it is up to date. Look for the descriptions of things you do and amend it if your business focus has altered. Look closely at any guarantees, payment terms or agreements you may have. Have any changes you think necessary reviewed by your lawyers.

3. Review your Spam Compliance Statement
Do you have a Spam Compliance Statement? If so, make sure that you are abiding by your obligations under the Spam Act 2003 (Cth). Are your employees and marketing consultants aware of your obligations? Test your "unsubscribe service" and ensure it is working. Consult your lawyers if you need further advice.

4. Consider your Trade Marks
Review your business for any trade marks you may have. Are your trade marks registered? Are you displaying the appropriate ? or ® sign? Search the internet for your trade marks/company name and domain names to see if anyone is inappropriately using your brand. Consider your own website for any trade marks you do not have permission to display.

Rob Ffrench is an experienced Commercial Intellectual Property Lawyer and Partner of Ffrench Commercial Lawyers.

This article is intended to assist you in ensuring your business achieves maximum potential with or without the assistance of Ffrench Commercial Lawyers. It does not constitute any form of legal advice.