Key point 4-04. Many states recognize "invasion of privacy" as a basis for liability. Invasion of privacy may consist of any one or more of the following: (1) public disclosure of private facts; (2) use of another person's name or likeness; (3) placing someone in a "false light" in the public eye; or (4) intruding upon another's seclusion.
A federal district court in Virginia ruled that an insurance company that posted confidential medical records online without security restriction gave "unreasonable publicity" to, and "disclosure" of information about, patients' private lives.
This case suggests that a church may be liable on the basis of invasion of privacy to publishing a "prayer list" in a church bulletin, newsletter, website, or some other resource that contains the names and medical conditions of church members who are either ...
Join now to access this member-only content
Become a Member
Already a member? Log in for full access.
Related ResourcesVisit Store
Understanding Pastoral Liability
Know the situations in which a pastor is personally liable for wrongdoing.
Using Social Media Safely
Policies to keep your church staff and members safe when using social media.
Best Practices for Technology Usage
Establish policies and best practices to govern the use of technology for church staff.
