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A recently filed lawsuit may help pave the way in determining true underlying ownership of social media accounts.  An Internet firm named PhoneDog Media recently filed a suit against a former employee named Noah Kravitz concerning a Twitter account that Mr. Kravitz created when he was an employee of the firm.

In a statement, PhoneDog Media stated, "The costs and resources invested by PhoneDog Media into growing its followers, fans and general brand awareness through social media are substantial and are considered property of PhoneDog Media L.L.C. We intend to aggressively protect our customer lists and confidential information, intellectual property, trademark and brands." 

In providing a review of the case, New York based IP lawyer Henry Cittone made the following comments, "It all hinges on why the account was opened … if it was to communicate with PhoneDog's customers or build up new customers or prospects, then the account was opened on behalf of PhoneDog, not Mr. Kravitz”

In view of the dynamic nature of employment, the importance of branding in addition to the nascent industry which is social media, should a verdict be reached, it will establish a precedent in the online world.

For further commentary, please visit:  
http://tinyurl.com/Twitter-Precedent