What to do when things are unclear

You may find some reuse permissions related to a dataset are unclear and a rights holder not listed.

In this situation, data may still be usable and this use covered by a fair use (or fair dealing) exception or other local law.

If this is not the case, then you could make a risk-based decision over the collection, use and sharing of the data. You would undertake this with the understanding that the rights holder could reemerge and it may be necessary to:

  • backtrack
  • negotiate continued use
  • potentially face a legal challenge
Graphic showing scales with fair use and copyright logos on either side