“False light invasion of privacy is primarily intended to protect the integrity of one’s public identity. The tort is committed when defendant subjects plaintiff to ‘unreasonable and highly objectionable publicity that attributes to him characteristics, conduct or beliefs that are false,’ such that plaintiff is ‘placed before the public in a false position.'”
“No known California court has yet determined whether a “false light” invasion of privacy claim is subject to the two-year limitations period applicable to other invasion of privacy claims or the one-year period applicable to defamation claims. Given that false light claims are generally subject to the same restrictions as defamation claims, it is likely that the latter will apply, at least to claims based on a defamatory publication. For the reasons discussed above, it is likely that false light claims will be subject to the accrual rules that apply in defamation actions. A false light claim based on a publication that is defamatory is subject to the damage limitations and requirements applicable to defamation actions. If these requirements are met, plaintiff is entitled to recover both general and special damages. Punitive damages may be awarded where defendant is guilty of oppression, fraud or malice, proven by clear and convincing evidence.”
[California Practice Guide: Civil Procedure Before Trail Claims & Defenses [citations to primary sources omitted]]
