IP rights - online game with public data on webpage

[AKAHelp]

I started a website that deals with a very popular online game and the parent company of the game has contacted me saying I am infringing upon their IP. They did not give specifics but from what I have gathered it would be the use of some of the pictures I use from within the game and the data I am gathering. The data is provided free on the game maker's webpage and there are many websites that gather data from them. They don't seem to have a problem with other sites that are using the data but then again those sites are non-profit sites for the most part (besides advertisements). My website is based on a new concept never done before and is getting worldwide recognition. Also we are a for-profit site due to the fact that we don't have any advertisements yet. And plus we state on the bottom of everypage that (game) trademarks or registered trademarks (game company)

The letter I received is very vague and it deals with infringing upon their IP. I'm supposed to have a phone conference with the legal head of the company tonight. I'm wondering if there is anything I can do or ask so that my site can stay open. In terms of the pictures I'm using I plan on taking all the ones I have down and then remaking them myself. In terms of the data I'm gathering, it is off a public site that the game maker provides and does not seem like they have a problem with anyone else using. Its a long shot but I thought I should try to at least ask to see if there is anything I can do, at this point I do not have enough money to properly seek a lawyer.

 

[Michael Wechsler]

As we haven't seen the letter I can't answer to the claims. There may be no legal grounds for this other company to threaten you although it's possible that they may not want you to keep their graphics and logo on your site. If your site is becoming popular I would highly advise that you speak to an attorney. In many instances companies try to buy out fan sites like yours on the cheap, threatening them with all sorts of legal action hoping you'll crumble. You're probably better off not having a call with them although it's probably too late. I certainly would not admit or agree to anything until you have someone look things over. You may want to post information here (without any company or URL references) or send it in to our support and possibly someone may look it over for you. This sounds exciting and best of luck!