Updates

This is a reminder update of fanlisting wording for the General category.

Recently, TFL has been receiving an increasing number of complaints from celebrity lawyers and/or recording companies regarding fanlistings owners’ use of the word “official” on their websites. Because of this, we want to remind you all that using phrases like “official fanlisting” or “approved fanlisting” can create problems, as this makes you (to people unfamiliar with the fanlisting world) look like you have the endorsement of the celebrity, band, etc. Usually the people that contact us are friendly, but this may not always be the case.

TFL strongly recommends that on your fanlisting you are very clear with your wording, and instead of “official,” use something like, “This is the TFL.org listed fanlisting…” or “This is the TFL.org approved fanlisting…” We discourage using terms like “official” or “approved” unless you have the permission or approval of the actual subject him/her/itself. Also, disclaimers and explanations of what fanlistings are can be helpful.

We don’t want to sound like we are coming down on owners for using terms like “official fanlisting” or “the approved fanlisting.” However, we feel that caution is best so that these can be fun like they are supposed to be! :)

If you are confused, want advice, or have any questions, feel free to drop the senior staff an e-mail. We are happy to help out.