Tánaiste launches legal proceedings against Google over use of his name and image in scam adverts

THE Tánaiste Micheál Martin has launched legal action against Google over the use of his name and image in financial advertising online.

Mr Martin launched High Court proceedings against the tech giant after he was “left with no option but to pursue the matter through the courts”.

A spokesperson for Fianna Fáil said Mr Martin believes it is neither acceptable nor tolerable that unknown persons can use his image and name online in an effort to associate him with financial products.

The spokesperson said Mr Martin has never heard of these products and that those involved are seeking to extract money from people using his name.

The Tánaiste has already sought information from Google to understand and identify who is responsible for these advertisements carried on "respectable websites".

“The Tánaiste believes it is neither acceptable nor tolerable that persons unknown can use his image and name online in an effort to associate him with financial products he has never heard of and seek to extract money from people, using his name,” the spokesperson said.

“The Tánaiste sought information from Google in an effort to understand and identify who is responsible for these ads, carried on respectable websites.

“As they were not in a position to hand over the information without a court order, the Tánaiste was left with no option but to pursue the matter through the courts.

“No further comment will be issued at this time as the Tánaiste respects that this matter is now before the High Court.”