Ancestry.com Defeats Suit Over Improper Use of Consumer Images

Ancestry.com Operations Inc. defeated a proposed class action alleging it used consumers’ photos without their consent to advertise its services and attract new subscribers.

Plaintiffs John Braundmeier and Kevin Wallace failed to provide evidence from which a reasonable jury could conclude that Ancestry used their information for a “commercial purpose” as defined under the Illinois Right of Publicity Act, Judge Jeffrey I. Cummings of the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois said Wednesday.

Cummings granted Ancestry’s motion for summary judgment.

The plaintiffs alleged in the lawsuit that Ancestry misappropriated their images and likenesses to advertise its products ...