Do You Need Permission to Link to Another Website?
Often, a website will provide a connection to another site via a “link” or “hyperlink.” This is a clickable word or image that if clicked on, transports the viewer to a specific page on another website.
You do not need permission to include a link on your website that goes to another website. Nor is it copyright infringement if you do include such a link.
But here are some key things to keep in mind when adding links from your website to another site:
- Never copy content from another website and put it onto your site without permission, as this could very well constitute copyright infringement, unless it’s deemed “fair use.”
- Never include another website’s trademark on your site without permission.
- Outbound links to other websites can be helpful for your user experience and for search engine optimization.
- Never “frame” your page over another site’s content—this could constitute copyright infringement and confuse the user as to which site is providing the content.
- Getting inbound links to your site from reputable third-party sites is an important way to get increased traffic to your site and enhance your standing with Google.
- Protect your content by having copyright notices on your site and in your Terms of Use Agreement.
- Do not include copied images, photos, or graphics from other sites onto your site, as this will likely constitute copyright infringement.
FAQs about linking to other websites
Below we have summarized the most important questions and answers on the subject.
What does linking to a website mean?
Often, a website will provide a connection to another site via a “link” or “hyperlink.” This is a clickable word or image that if clicked on, transports the viewer to a specific page on another website.
Is it copyright infringement to link to a website?
No, but there are some things to keep in mind when linking to or referencing other websites on your own site. Never copy content from another website and put it onto your site without permission. Never include another website’s trademark on your site without permission. Never “frame” your page over another site’s content—this could constitute copyright infringement and confuse the user as to which site is providing the content. Do not include copied images, photos, or graphics from other sites onto your site, as this will likely constitute copyright infringement.
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