How many distinct torts are included under invasion of privacy?

How many distinct torts are included under invasion of privacy?

• A. Three
• B. Four
• C. Five
• D. Six

Answer: (B)

Four distinct torts are recognized under invasion of privacy: intrusion upon seclusion, appropriation of name or likeness, public disclosure of private facts, and false light. Intrusion upon seclusion covers highly offensive intrusions into a person’s private space or affairs, even if no damage results. Appropriation of name or likeness protects against using someone’s name, image, or likeness for commercial purposes without permission. Public disclosure of private facts bars publishing highly private information that a reasonable person would find embarrassing or not of legitimate public concern. False light involves presenting someone in a misleading or highly offensive manner, even if the information is true. Some jurisdictions treat the right of publicity separately or combine it with appropriation, but the standard framework lists four.

Four distinct torts are recognized under invasion of privacy: intrusion upon seclusion, appropriation of name or likeness, public disclosure of private facts, and false light. Intrusion upon seclusion covers highly offensive intrusions into a person’s private space or affairs, even if no damage results. Appropriation of name or likeness protects against using someone’s name, image, or likeness for commercial purposes without permission. Public disclosure of private facts bars publishing highly private information that a reasonable person would find embarrassing or not of legitimate public concern. False light involves presenting someone in a misleading or highly offensive manner, even if the information is true. Some jurisdictions treat the right of publicity separately or combine it with appropriation, but the standard framework lists four.