‘Copyright Trolls’: The Unseen Tactics Lurking In The Backdrops Of Online Photos
Dear Reader,
Remember when the internet was all about dancing babies and cheezburger-hazzing cats? Nowadays, it’s a lot more complex; it’s also somebody’s livelihood, someone’s portfolio, and another’s form of escape. These qualities converge into an intricate ecosystem everyone can call their own, but they have also created a dwelling place for a host of sophisticated individuals known as “copyright trolls.”
Like many others we’ve become acquainted with in the past months, DesignTAXI was handed a letter by one of these parties (the dispute was later dismissed as it was proven we had rights to the image). As a recipient, we saw firsthand the questionable tactics employed by the propagators and how easily people can be swayed into settling. On the other hand, as creatives ourselves, we deeply empathized with the frustration of others who have had their hard work appropriated without their knowledge or consent.
Copyright troll lawyers thrive on both sides of the coin, casting fear onto victims while taking a generous cut from usually well-meaning creators, with little intention to litigate. Upon further investigation, we uncovered a whole industry that operates in the underbelly of the confusion. We spoke to image users, creatives, and lawyers who have found themselves on the opposing side of the “trolls.”
As the world recovers from a difficult few years, we deem it our mission to bring hope and clarity. In early 2022, we opened a ‘Hope’ section—which we continue to update almost daily—for anyone who needs a bump of positivity. Now, we’re expanding our focus to those who don’t fully grasp copyright law, as it is expected of them. We hope photographers and everyday readers alike will find our learnings helpful. Last of all, if you know anybody who has been trapped in copyright complexities, I implore you to share the word.
Happy holidays in advance!
Mikelle Leow
Editor, DesignTAXI
Dear Reader,
Remember when the internet was all about dancing babies and cheezburger-hazzing cats? Nowadays, it’s a lot more complex; it’s also somebody’s livelihood, someone’s portfolio, and another’s form of escape. These qualities converge into an intricate ecosystem everyone can call their own, but they have also created a dwelling place for a host of sophisticated individuals known as “copyright trolls.”
Like many others we’ve become acquainted with in the past months, DesignTAXI was handed a letter by one of these parties (the dispute was later dismissed as it was proven we had rights to the image). As a recipient, we saw firsthand the questionable tactics employed by the propagators and how easily people can be swayed into settling. On the other hand, as creatives ourselves, we deeply empathized with the frustration of others who have had their hard work appropriated without their knowledge or consent.
Copyright troll lawyers thrive on both sides of the coin, casting fear onto victims while taking a generous cut from usually well-meaning creators, with little intention to litigate. Upon further investigation, we uncovered a whole industry that operates in the underbelly of the confusion. We spoke to image users, creatives, and lawyers who have found themselves on the opposing side of the “trolls.”
As the world recovers from a difficult few years, we deem it our mission to bring hope and clarity. In early 2022, we opened a ‘Hope’ section—which we continue to update almost daily—for anyone who needs a bump of positivity. Now, we’re expanding our focus to those who don’t fully grasp copyright law, as it is expected of them. We hope photographers and everyday readers alike will find our learnings helpful. Last of all, if you know anybody who has been trapped in copyright complexities, I implore you to share the word.
Happy holidays in advance!
Mikelle Leow
Editor, DesignTAXI
This special feature consists of two more parts investigating the impact of copyright trolls on the industry
For Creators
Was Your Photo Stolen? Regain Control Without Hurting Your Online Reputation
Photo theft is pervasive on the internet. Too often, we’ve heard from creators who remain frustrated about their work being misappropriated but don’t have the resources to take action.Was Your Photo Stolen? Regain Control Without Hurting Your Online Reputation
Well, we’re here to tell you that there are options. In this feature, you’ll find out:
- Your power as a creative in a borderless virtual world
- How to handle copyright infringement as an independent creator
- Reverse image search tools:
A good idea?
For Image Users
Received A Copyright Infringement Notice? Here’s What You Have To Do
It can be daunting to wake up to the sight of a takedown warning.Received A Copyright Infringement Notice? Here’s What You Have To Do
Should you ignore it? Are there ways to peacefully remediate with the copyright holder and their lawyer after you’re issued with a letter?
In this feature, you’ll learn:
- The “safest” Creative Commons licenses to use
- How misused photos often get discovered
- The necessary steps to take when receiving such notices
- The different statutes of limitations in various countries and jurisdictions
Public Service Announcement
If you know anyone who is affected, forward this on. These articles are also free for anyone to republish—with attribution and link to the sources on DesignTAXI—so that the broader community can learn from these experiences.
Note: Featured stock images are not included as they ought to be separately licensed.
If you know anyone who is affected, forward this on. These articles are also free for anyone to republish—with attribution and link to the sources on DesignTAXI—so that the broader community can learn from these experiences.
Note: Featured stock images are not included as they ought to be separately licensed.
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