Selena Gomez files US$10mil lawsuit against mobile game for stealing her likeness

Gomez alleges that one of the characters is obviously based on her, and that she has never agreed to have her likeness used in any mobile game. — AFP

LOS ANGELES: Selena Gomez has filed a US$10mil (RM43.40mil) lawsuit against the makers of a mobile game, alleging that it rips off her likeness and those of other celebrities.

Clothes Forever – Styling Game is available for download in Apple's App Store. It allows users to buy "diamonds" for prices ranging from US$0.99 (RM4.30) up to US$99.99 (RM433.99), and to go on virtual shopping trips with celebrities.

"Interact with the most beautiful models and celebrities; the likes of Kardashian, Gigi, Beyonce, Taylor, and more will be dropping by and asking for YOUR fashion advice!" the promotional material states.

Gomez alleges that one of the characters is obviously based on her, and that she has never agreed to have her likeness used in any mobile game.

"Defendants never requested, consulted, or informed Gomez regarding the use of any of her publicity rights in connection with the Game," the suit states. "Nor, if asked, would Gomez have consented to such use for the Game, which apparently relies on the unsavoury practice of luring its users to make in-game purchases in amounts as much as US$99.99 (RM433.99) to fund imaginary spending in the Game and unlock features."

Gomez is suing Guangzhou Feidong Software Technology Co, the China-based seller of the game, as well as MutantBox Interactive Limited, the British company that holds copyrights to the game.

The suit notes that Gomez has "carefully curated all endorsements and business opportunities" in a way that advances her goals and her image as a role model for youth.

The suit also states that the mobile game is "bug-riddled" and that it is "rated a measly 3.5 stars out of 5" by reviewers in the App Store. – Variety.com/Reuters