Adhering to copyright laws is extremely important, as it protects the interests of both creators and consumers as well as preserves the integrity of creative works. Unfortunately, some people take advantage of the system by posting copyrighted images without permission to elicit a reaction or financial gain. These individuals are commonly known as image trolls, and they can be a major nuisance to both content creators and consumers.

Copyright image trolls are individuals who post copyrighted images without permission to gain a reaction or financial gain. They intentionally make their content easy to find so that they can get as many people as possible to see it, which can cause a lot of frustration for the people who created the copyrighted images. Additionally, copyright image trolls can also be a nuisance for consumers, as they can steal bandwidth and clog up search results with irrelevant content.

Common Mistakes That Can Attract Copyright Image Trolls

Because social media exposure and website maintenance have become necessary components in every business, small businesses often have limited resources to identify and prevent online infringement. One such issue is the inadvertent use of copyrighted images by businesses that are not aware of the potential consequences.

One common mistake that can attract the attention of copyright image trolls is the use of low-resolution or screen-captured images. Sometimes, businesses will use images that are not authorized for commercial use. Additionally, businesses may not realize that simply posting an image on their website or social media page without permission from the copyright holder can violate copyright law.

Another way businesses can inadvertently attract copyright image trolls is by using stock photography without paying for a license. Stock photography is often used by businesses to avoid the cost and hassle of hiring a professional photographer, but using stock photography without permission from the copyright holder can lead to a lawsuit.

How to Avoid Internet Copyright Image Trolls

To avoid becoming a victim of internet copyright image trolls, business owners need to be vigilant about who they are sharing their images with. Here are the steps you can take to protect yourself:

1. Only post images you own the copyright to

Using the images you have captured lessens your chances of being taken advantage of by trolls. If an image is not yours to share, be sure to credit the photographer or source. For example, if you find a great stock photo online, be sure to include a link to the photo and the photographer’s website in the post.

2. Watermark your images

Adding a watermark to your images is a great way to deter trolls from using them without your permission. There are several watermarking tools and apps available, and most are free to use. A few examples of these tools are PicMarkr, Inpixio Watermark, and Adobe Photoshop.

3. Use a safe sharing site

There are several safe sharing sites available that allow you to share your images without having to worry about copyright infringement. These websites can help you protect your images from being stolen or used without your permission. A few of them are Unsplash, Pixabay, and Pexels.

4. Keep your images private

If you don’t want anyone to use your images without your permission, you can keep them private. This means that only people you choose will be able to view them.

5. Register your images with the copyright office

If you want to be absolutely sure that your images are protected, you can register them at the copyright office. This will provide you with legal protection in case someone tries to use them without your permission.

6. Train content creators and developers regarding copyright laws

All content producers must have knowledge and expertise with copyright law. This will help them understand when they are in danger of crossing the line, and how to protect their work from being stolen.

7. Advocate for harsher penalties for copyright infringement

Currently, the penalties for copyright infringement are not harsh enough. This encourages people to steal others’ work, as the consequences are not significant enough.

8. Educate the public about the dangers of copyright infringement

The public needs to be aware of the dangers of copyright infringement. This will help to discourage people from stealing others’ work, and will also help to protect content creators.

9. Create a better system for tracking and prosecuting copyright infringement

The current system for tracking and prosecuting copyright infringement is not efficient. This encourages people to steal others’ work, as the consequences are not significant enough.

10. Support content creators

Content creators need to be supported. This will help to encourage them to continue creating valuable content and will help to protect their work from being stolen.

What to Do When Internet Copyright Image Trolls Attack You

If you have fallen victim to an internet copyright image troll, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself and your work.

First, consult an attorney. Many attorneys specialize in copyright law and can help you protect your work from trolls.

Second, take steps to protect your online identity. Use a pseudonym or anonymous account to post your work and do not share any personal information with trolls.

Third, be vigilant in monitoring your work for unauthorized use. Use a copyright monitoring service to keep track of where your images are being used online.

Fourth, take action against any unauthorized use of your images. If you find that someone is using your images without permission, send them a cease and desist letter, or pursue legal action.

By taking these steps, you can protect yourself from internet copyright image trolls and safeguard your work.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, internet copyright image trolls hinder creativity and the free flow of information on the internet. They should be discouraged and dealt with accordingly. If you have encountered one, you can report them to the authorities or use one of the many online tools to help remove the offending image.