The UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) has issued a warning to Internet users that just because something appears on the Web does not mean it is free to use. This is particularly true of images and music, which are widely pirated. The UKIPO points out that ignorance of the law is no defence and that violations of copyright can cost several thousand pounds in damages.
What the announcement does not point out is that some owners of images employ 'image search' software to scan websites for copies of their images. The operators of the relevant websites can then receive letters from lawyers requesting large sums for the unauthorised use of the image. A recent example of such a letter demanded £3,000 for each of two images used without permission and although the final settlement was far less, it was a nasty shock to the website owner.
What the announcement does not point out is that some owners of images employ 'image search' software to scan websites for copies of their images. The operators of the relevant websites can then receive letters from lawyers requesting large sums for the unauthorised use of the image. A recent example of such a letter demanded £3,000 for each of two images used without permission and although the final settlement was far less, it was a nasty shock to the website owner.
