What is an imprint?

An imprint is a legally required statement that must be displayed on a website. It is used to identify the owner of the website and to provide legal information about the operator and the person responsible for the content of this website. In Germany, the obligation to provide an imprint is regulated in the Telemedia Act (TMG), the Interstate Broadcasting Treaty (RStV) and press law.

Components of an imprint

An imprint should contain at least the following information:

• Name and address of the site operator and, if applicable, the authorized representative, e.g. B. in the case of a GmbH, the managing director
• Contact information such as telephone number, email address and, if available, fax number
• For registered companies, the commercial register or association register number and the responsible registration court
• For journalistic-editorial content that can influence opinion formation: the person responsible within the meaning of the RStV or press law with their full address
• For regulated professions (e.g. lawyers, doctors, tax consultants): information on the responsible chamber, job title and the responsible supervisory authority
• VAT identification number in accordance with Section 27a UStG, if available
• Economic identification number in accordance with Section 139c of the Tax Code, if available

When is an imprint necessary?

An imprint is necessary for all websites that are operated for business purposes or in a similar context. In addition to commercial sites, this also includes informative websites, blogs and forums, provided they are regularly updated and have a certain reach. In addition, the legal notice requirement must also be observed for social media profiles.

How should an imprint be designed?

The imprint should be easy to find and easy to read. It is advisable to place a link to the legal notice in the main navigation or in the footer of the website. In addition, the link to the imprint should be easily recognizable by clearly labeling it as “imprint” or “provider identification”. In addition, the legal notice should always be kept up to date and legal changes should be adapted.