University Copyright Center
Can I link to any Internet site?
Yes, as long as the link is an HTML HREF link.  If the link is an HTML IMG link using an image or graphic, then the answer is: No.  This is because of the fact that this might very well be considered copying and distributing the graphic or image.  The rights to authorize copies and to authorize distribution are two of the rights that the Copyright Law grants a copyright owner.  Without permission, these acts would be two copyright infringements.