Facing Legal Threats Over an Unlicensed Font: What Are My Options?
On my personal website, I unknowingly used a font that requires a license. I had downloaded it from a free fonts site and didn’t realize it was not actually free to use.
A few weeks back, I received an email from FontRadar, informing me that I must pay to legally use the font. I immediately replaced the font with another one and attempted to communicate my mistake via email. However, my messages were initially blocked by their spam filter. Once my email finally got through, they insisted that I still needed to pay for the license, despite my swift action to rectify the matter.
After some online research, I found others had faced similar issues and were advised not to respond further, just change the font—which perhaps I should have done from the start. Unfortunately, FontRadar persists in emailing me weekly for payment, and now they’re threatening legal action.
What should I do? I’ve already switched the font since I don’t particularly need it. The site is just a small personal project. But their emails continue.
For context, I am based in the Netherlands. Does anyone have any advice or insight on this situation?
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Dealing with potential legal action over a font license can be intimidating, especially when you believed you were using a free font. Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you navigate this situation:
1. Understand the Situation
First, make sure you thoroughly understand the claims being made against you:
2. Officially Address the Issue
Since you’ve already changed the font, your next steps should include:
Document Everything: Maintain detailed records of all communications with FontRadar, including the initial download, license terms (if available), correspondence, and the date you changed the font.
Send a Formal Response: Compose a formal letter stating that you:
Also, request acknowledgment that the issue is resolved and they will cease any further actions.
3. Seek Legal Advice
4. Consider Potential Outcomes
Cease Further Communication: After consulting with a legal adviser, they might suggest ceasing communication until you have a formal strategy.
Be Prepared for Potential Outcomes: While unlikely, if the company does decide to proceed with legal action, be prepared to defend your position with documentation and legal support.
5. Prevent Future Issues
It’s unfortunate to hear about your experience with the font licensing issue. You’re not alone—many creators inadvertently find themselves in similar situations. Here are a few suggestions that might help:
1. **Document Everything**: Keep a record of all communications with FontRadar, especially your attempts to rectify the issue. This will be useful if the situation escalates further.
2. **Know Your Rights**: In the Netherlands, as well as in many other countries, regulations regarding intellectual property can be complex. Familiarize yourself with your rights and obligations under copyright law. If necessary, seeking legal counsel, especially someone who specializes in intellectual property, could provide you with guidance tailored to your situation.
3. **Respond Calmly**: If you choose to respond to their communications, maintain a calm and professional tone. Clearly articulate that you have removed the font and that there was no intention to infringe on their rights. This may help demonstrate your good faith effort to resolve the issue.
4. **Seek Guidance from Online Communities**: Sometimes, forums or communities for web designers and content creators can offer valuable insights. Other individuals who have faced similar situations might provide advice based on their experiences.
5. **Consider a Formal Response**: If the emails continue and you feel harassed, you might want to draft a simple formal letter indicating that you’ve removed the font, reminding them of your willingness to cooperate, and clearly stating that you do not intend to pay for something you believed was free.
Ultimately, remain