What it is
Unauthorized use of original imagery, video, or written content.
Where it happens
Social posts, e-commerce listings, ads, scraper sites, mirror domains.
How we stop it
DMCA notices, EU CDSM Directive, platform copyright portals, registrar action.
Overview
The fastest way to recognize a counterfeit seller online is to spot stolen brand photography. Counterfeiters, dropshippers and scammers all rely on the brand owner's own creative work to make their listings look legitimate. Removing those assets cuts off their ability to operate.
Copyright protection also covers product designs (in some jurisdictions), marketing campaigns, written content, music in promotional videos, and any other original creative output your team produces.
Real-World Examples
Copyright violations we remove every day
- Stolen product photography appearing on counterfeit and dropshipping listings.
- Reposted campaign videos on TikTok, Reels and YouTube Shorts without authorization.
- Mirrored editorial content on scraper sites that monetize via ads or affiliate links.
- Lookbook and catalog copies circulating in wholesale Telegram and WhatsApp channels.
- Stolen UGC from the brand's customers being repurposed by impersonator accounts.
How We Enforce
Copyright is the simplest IP right to enforce online because the takedown frameworks are well established globally.
- DMCA notices (US). Filed directly with platforms and hosting providers under 17 U.S.C. § 512.
- CDSM Directive (EU). Article 17 obligations on platforms make removals fast across European surfaces.
- National notice regimes. Equivalent procedures in the UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, India and beyond.
- Platform IP forms. Direct channels at Meta, TikTok, YouTube, X, Snap, Pinterest and Reddit.
- Search delisting. Google and Bing copyright removal requests for infringing URLs.
Evidence Required
- Original assets with metadata, raw files, or publication date evidence.
- Authorization to act on the rights-holder's behalf.
- Optional but helpful: a published rights statement on your brand site.
Typical Timeline
- Social platforms: 12–48 hours, often within the same day.
- E-commerce marketplaces: 6–48 hours.
- Hosting / registrar action: 24–96 hours.
- Search delisting: 3–10 days.
FAQ
Do we need US copyright registration to file DMCA?
What about counter-notices?
Seeing this violation against your brand?
Our enforcement team can issue a takedown notice within hours of evidence submission.
Submit a Case