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User-generated news content has sent cable news network CNN to court, reportedly suing an iReporter on grounds of trademark infringement, breach of contract and unfair competition.
CNN encourages citizen journalism and viewer video contributions to its CNN iReport Web site. But the practice of encouraging viewers to submit their own news stories has uploaded some new perils, the lawsuit reveals.
The cable news network is suing Robert Paisola for perhaps taking the iReporter concept too far, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
Mr. Paisola, whose online postings carry Sandy, Utah, contact information, reportedly identified himself on blogs and elsewhere as a senior iReporter for CNN. A Twitter feed of his at one time also contained a stylized CNN logo, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
According to the suit filed in Atlanta, Mr. Paisola allegedly tried to use the CNN iReporter status to obtain press credentials to access news events and violated a prior agreement to cease his activities.
News stories also say he has claimed to be credentialed by other news organizations. Aside from being a news provider, Mr. Paisola's Twitter bio lists him as a “debt collector abuse advocate” and “timeshare scam protector.”
CNN reportedly alleges his use of its trademark is likely to deceive the public and cause irreparable harm.