Respond correctly to demands from SoundGuardian GmbH and Amann Rechtsanwälte regarding music usage
Respond correctly to demands from SoundGuardian GmbH and Amann Rechtsanwälte regarding music usage
When companies or influencers unexpectedly receive mail from SoundGuardian GmbH or the law firm Amann Rechtsanwälte, it can be an unpleasant situation. Often, these involve licensing demands for music used in videos or Reels on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook. But how should those affected best respond to such letters? This article provides legally sound guidance on how to respond appropriately.
What does SoundGuardian GmbH require?
SoundGuardian GmbH typically requests additional licensing when music has been used on social media platforms without the required license. In such cases, SoundGuardian often demands high licensing fees, often several thousand euros plus VAT. Videos with a wide reach or those classified as commercial content are particularly affected.
Role of the law firm Amann Rechtsanwälte
The law firm Amann Rechtsanwälte is currently representing the interests of SoundGuardian GmbH. If those affected do not respond to SoundGuardian GmbH's initial letters, further communication usually follows through legal letters. It is particularly important that recipients observe the often short deadlines in these letters and under no circumstances make any premature payments or submit statements.
Correct response to relicensing requests
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Keep Calm: Avoid paying too quickly or communicating directly with the other party.
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Note deadlines: Check the letter carefully and make sure you meet the specified deadlines.
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No direct contact: It is not advisable to contact SoundGuardian GmbH or Amann Rechtsanwälte directly in order to avoid possible disadvantages.
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Document the facts: Collect relevant evidence, such as screenshots, upload dates, the reach of the videos, and the length of the music used.
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Seek legal assistance: Have your claims reviewed by specialized IT and media law attorneys to ensure that your rights are protected.
Are SoundGuardian’s claims justified?
Not every subsequent license request is automatically justified. The legitimacy of the request and its amount must always be examined on a case-by-case basis. It is important to carefully analyze the specific circumstances to determine whether a license obligation actually exists and whether the requested amount is reasonable.
Prevention: Managing music licenses correctly
To prevent unpleasant letters like those from SoundGuardian GmbH, companies and influencers should:
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Check if you have the required license: Make sure you have the necessary licenses for using music in videos.
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Find out about the licensing conditions of social media platforms: Regularly check the licensing requirements of the various platforms on which you publish content.
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Create clear internal regulations: Establish clear guidelines for music use in videos and ensure that all employees are informed accordingly.
Conclusion
If you receive a letter from SoundGuardian GmbH or the law firm Amann Rechtsanwälte, a thorough review by specialized lawyers is essential. Hasty reactions without legal advice can often lead to unnecessary costs and disadvantages. Professional legal support helps avoid costly mistakes and guarantees the best possible outcome for subsequent license claims.
About the author
Anne-Kathrin Renz
Anne-Kathrin Renz is a lawyer, data protection officer, and lecturer. She completed the theoretical part of her specialist lawyer training in intellectual property law and IT law. In her blog, she reports on current topics from the digital world of law.
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