FBI and Wikipedia stand-off over logo

The FBI has demanded that Wikipedia remove its seal from their website and has threatened legal action if it is not taken down.

The New York Times has posted a letter from the FBI, addressed to Wikipedia, saying that "[t]he FBI has not authorised use of the FBI seal on Wikipedia”.

“The inclusion of a high quality graphic of the FBI seal on Wikipedia is particularly problematic, because it facilitates both deliberate and unwitting" copying of the seal.

“Failure to comply may result in further legal action. We appreciate your timely attention to this matter".

The seal is featured in the Wikipedia article about the FBI, which contains a large section containing criticism of the beaureau’s performance over the years.

Wikipedia have, however, refused the FBI’s request, saying, in a playful letter also posted online by The New York Times, that they are “compelled as a matter of law and principle to deny [the FBI’s] demand for removal of the FBI Seal from Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons”.

“We are in contact with outside counsel in this matter,” the letter continues, “and we are prepared to argue our view in court”.