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How can I protect my photos from content thieves?

Your photos are protected by copyright: others may not simply copy them. It is impossible to completely prevent content thieves from striking, but you can significantly reduce the risk — and prepare to take effective action if it...

Published on June 2, 2022 by MKBjuristen.nl
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Your photos are protected by copyright: others may not simply copy them. It is impossible to completely prevent content thieves from striking, but you can significantly reduce the risk — and prepare to take effective action if it does happen.

As the creator, you have protection

If you take a photograph of your own original character, it is automatically protected by copyright. Others may not copy or publish that photograph without permission. In practice, however, this often happens; therefore, it is wise to take measures in advance.

Simple preventive measures

With a few simple steps, you can make theft more difficult and yourself findable: add a visible watermark or copyright notice, add your name and rights to the file's metadata, and publish photos in a lower resolution. This way, your imagery remains usable for your site, but less attractive to steal.

Document your authorship

Keep the original, highest-resolution files and the raw footage (RAW), with the date. This proves that you are the creator should a dispute arise. Good proof of authorship is invaluable in proceedings against an infringer.

Detect infringements and take action

Regularly check where your photos appear, for example using a reverse image search. If you find an infringement, document it with screenshots and the date, and take action: a cease and desist letter, a removal request, and, if necessary, a claim for damages. Timely and targeted action pays off.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I completely prevent the theft of my photos?

Not at all, but you can significantly reduce the risk with watermarks, metadata, lower resolution, and monitoring.

How do I prove that I am the creator?

Keep the original files and raw footage with the date. This proves your authorship in the event of a dispute.

What do I do in case of an infringement?

Document the infringement, send a cease and desist letter and a removal request, and claim damages if necessary.

Protect your photos or deal with an infringement?

Our legal experts advise on copyright and take action against infringement. View our copyrightor IP lawteam, or schedule a free consultation.

Please note: an article provides general information, but your legal situation may turn out differently.

A contract, conflict, or legal risk must always be assessed based on the facts, documents, evidentiary position, and interests. Are you in doubt? Have your situation assessed before you act.

Legal question regarding this article?

A blog provides explanation, but your situation often requires a concrete legal choice. MKB Juristen helps entrepreneurs with contracts, terms and conditions, GDPR documents, employment documents, disputes, and customized legal solutions.

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