Imprint obligation
What is an imprint obligation and what needs to be considered?
The imprint obligation is a legal obligation for operators of websites and online services to make their identity and contact details accessible to website visitors.
In Germany, the imprint obligation is regulated in the Telemedia Act (TMG) and in the Interstate Broadcasting Treaty (RStV). Accordingly, all service providers who offer commercial telemedia must have an imprint ready. These include, for example, websites of companies, associations, freelancers or private individuals, but also blogs or online shops.
The imprint must be easily recognizable, directly accessible and constantly available. It must contain information on the name and address of the provider, quick electronic contact (e-mail address), the competent supervisory authority and tax numbers or commercial register numbers, if applicable.
The imprint obligation serves consumer protection and is intended to ensure that users of a website can easily find out who is responsible for the content of the website and how to contact the provider with questions or problems. Violations of the imprint obligation can be punished with fines.