Channel 4 warned of simulcast lawsuits

Channel 4 could be in trouble over its decision to broadcast content online and on TV at the same time

Channel 4's decision to broadcast its home-grown content online and on TV at the same time has sparked fears of lawsuits from artists whose work is featured in TV adverts. 

TV ads are included in Channel 4's simulcast, and the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA) has claimed that musicians and actors featured in the adverts could sue ad agencies for breach of copyright. 

"If Channel 4 is going to broadcast TV ads online, it needs to ensure that all rights are cleared or provide indemnity," IPA legal director Marina Palomba told media news site Brand Republic. 

Channel 4's simulcast started on 27 June, and all the channel's commissioned content, including Big Brother and Hollyoaks, is streamed free of charge to registered website users. 

Acquired content such as Lost and Desperate Housewives is not yet part of the simulcast, although clips of both are available to view on demand for free. 

The IPA has asked Channel 4 to indemnify clients and agencies against potential legal action from third-party rights holders.