internet germany public-law
Can you get sued for someone else modifying a website you own?
<p>I own a website and domain and i've given someone access to modify it (developer). I am not a business and the person who has access is not paid for the job.</p>

<p>Recently the person who has access uploaded swastikas on the website. I was asleep at the time, so the swastikas were public for about 1-2 hours, after that i immediately removed them and also removed the persons access to modify the site. I live in germany where it is illegal to use symbols like a swastika (StGB § 86a).</p>

<p>Can i get sued for someone having put swastikas on my website for such a short period of time? And if yes, how bad would the punishment be?</p>

<p>Thank you for your time.</p>

<p>I can't tell you there's nothing to worry about, but this sounds like a scam - possibly an attempt at blackmail. They may be looking to acquire your domain, or subsequent communication might ask for money for it all to go away.</p>

<p>A local lawyer would be able to advise you far better than The Bloke On The Internet. Mention to them :</p>

<ul>
<li><p>That you were not responsible for the prohibited content</p></li>
<li><p>That you removed the content as soon as was reasonably possible</p></li>
<li><p>That you can provide details of the person you believe to be responsible (and, ideally evidence to show who posted the content, when it was posted, and when you deleted it)</p></li>
</ul>

<p>The lawyer may advise you to contact the local police. Tell them the same. It sounds like you are the victim here, and not the perpetrator.</p>
