Observed Signal · Feb 19, 2024 · Regulation · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Kununu May Reveal Real Names in Disputed Reviews
An interim ruling by Germany's Hanseatic Higher Regional Court (OLG Hamburg) could require kununu to disclose the real names of reviewers in cases where the authenticity of a review is in doubt. The decision would mark a potential shift away from kununu's advertised anonymity and could enable employers to challenge reviews with identified authors. Kununu's management, led by Nina Zimmermann, has criticized the ruling as conflicting with established Supreme Court precedent (BGH) and said the company will seek clarification through main proceedings. The case originated from lawyer Jan Meyer on behalf of a client who doubted the veracity of a negative review; the court found insufficient evidence that the decision deviates from BGH practice. Kununu currently provides anonymized information in such disputes and cites TTDSG protections for user anonymity. A final verdict is awaited, and the outcome could alter how New Work SE-owned platforms handle disputed reviews.
Moderate relevance: privacy and platform governance implications in user-generated reviews
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- OLG Hamburg issued an interim injunction requiring kununu to name real names of reviewers when authenticity is in doubt.
- Kununu argues the ruling conflicts with BGH precedent and intends to seek clarification via main proceedings.
- The case was brought by Jan Meyer on behalf of a client challenging a negative review's authenticity.
- The decision touches on TTDSG protections for anonymity and the debate over anonymized vs. identified information.
- Kununu is part of New Work SE and reportedly hosts millions of reviews; final verdict pending.
Connected Companies & Entities
1 Entity mappedRelated Market Signals & Shifts
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