Is it legal for the company I used to work for to publish my photos?

Question

I worked for a company last year for a few months and left after the probation period. I had to force them by court order to pay me my remaining wages eventually.
 
They have published my photos (single & in a group) on their website without asking my permission. I found out that just by chance as you can see my photo, job details and the place of work only by putting my name in google search. Whereas there isn't any photo & personal details of me on the net at all.

 As a lady & a mother, I am extremely upset, I want these photos to be removed as soon as possible. But I cannot negotiate with them; and they won do it any way, even if I ask them to do so, due to the negative relationship between us.
 
The photos (which I had given them to display in their office where/when I used to work), now they are on their website as some sort of showing off & customer attraction, while in my side is a huge discomfort.

 Do I have a right to complain? how/where? 
Any advise is greatly appreciated.
 Thanks in advance

Vasi · Accepted Answer

Well, in terms of legal advice, the only law that prevents employers to do whats mentioned above is data protection act. It seems like they have breached it however make sure you havent unwillingly gave them permision to do so e.g a note in the contract that u didnt pay attention.

If an employer breaches data protection act the activity becomes illegal and you have the right to file a lawsuit which in most cases will result in hefty payouts. :)

Georgina · Answer

Data Protection Act means you can write to them formally telling them you no longer give your consent to have your photo put on the site and are giving them 24 hours to take it down. If they haven't they will hear from your solicitor. 

This is true they can't use your photo if you withdraw. It's like unsubscribing to marketing emails. 

X

Photofox · Answer

I agree with Kelsey. You gave the photos to the company to display. ie: for their publicity, which they have now extended to their web site.
You should have taken back the photos when you left, thereby enforcing the notion that they are yours. By leaving them there, you have implied that the company has ownership.
That's my view, anyway.

Anonymous · Answer

You gave them the photos. They are company property.

Anonymous · Answer

Small Claims Court

@Kelsie 
Did you read it correctly? She gave them to display in their office, not as a gift.

Anonymous · Answer

If you worked for them and gave them photos, they then become their property I'm afraid. Try and contact them and ask for them to be removed. Can I see the website?

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Is it legal for the company I used to work for to publish my photos?

6 Answers