Don’t Use Unlicensed Images Online!

In the past week, the subject of properly licensed images came up in a volunteer project I’m involved in. It is generally a risk that small business owners and not-for-profits don’t understand. Related to this, an online marketer raised the question of whether AI could be used to search for unlicensed images…by those who own them, to licence their use, get them removed, or fine people using them illegally. While I do not know if this is a real thing (or a real thing yet) the protection of copyright is real.

In the past, many entrepreneurs have thought that images on the Internet were ours for the taking – especially if our websites had small followings.

But we do need to take copyright seriously. If you use someone else’s image (that you haven’t licensed from the owner), you could be fined or sued and forced to take down the images. You only have rights to use images you have produced or licenced from the owner.

Here is a Cole’s Notes version of guidelines for using images online:

  • It’s safest to ONLY use images you have created yourself (such as your own photos). If you have created, it you own the copyright.
  • If you want to use stock images (or images from other sources) – make sure you licence it’s use from them (and remember licences can expire).
  • If you put someone else’s image online and did not license its use – it is not yours. REMOVE IT ASAP. Replace it with one you know is licensed by an image provider – or use your own original material.
  • If you see something you want to use on Google – DO NOT copy and use it on youR online properties. If not licensed – you are likely violating the rights of the owner. They have the right to go after you legally (demand that you license (or pay to use that image), or they may sue you.
  • If you are licensing the use of an image from a stock image company, make sure you understand which licensing term to use. Here is an article from Istock Photo (an image company) that explains the kind of license you may need in different situations: https://www.istockphoto.com/help/licenses
  • NOTE: If you are using an image with a product that is being sold – YOU MUST APPLY FOR THE LICENCE THAT COVERS SELLING A PRODUCT. Yes, it is more expensive. BUT remember: If they find it and demand that you remove it? Can you actually do that? What if you had turned it into a printed product that you cannot recall?
  • Whether or not AI can be used to search for images, Google search is increasingly effective in searches. AI may be even better. To protect your materials: PLEASE ensure you follow the steps above to avoid the consequences.

Patricia Dent

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