What to Do When Your Art Gets Stolen Online

After you place an order and submit your print files, you order goes through a few stages to transform from concept to reality: 

#1 - DON'T MESSAGE THIEVES

When your art is stolen, it’s tempting to reach out to the infringer, but don’t.

You don’t owe anyone a heads-up, especially those profiting from your hard work. (And they certainly don't deserve a heads-up for what you're going to do next.) This includes buyers of stolen work or knock-off items.

Why You Should Avoid Direct Contact

Messaging the infringer can escalate the situation, leading to more conflict and stress.

Your time is valuable, and it's better spent elsewhere.

Also remember, any direct correspondence you have with an infringing seller could be used against you if the situation ever escalates to legal action. Even if they message you after you report them or file a DMCA, it’s best not to respond.

#2 - REPORT / SEND DMCA

Report the items!

Many online selling platforms make it easy to file a report. If the infringer is selling on a major platform, start there. There's usually a report button on the product page. If there's not, send a report directly to the support team of the platform.

If they’re using Shopify or Squarespace, you can send a DMCA notice directly to those companies. Both take copyright violations seriously!!

What if they have their own website?

If the infringer is hosting their site independently, your next step is to send a DMCA notice to their hosting provider.

Most hosting services will take action by removing the infringing content or even taking down the entire site if necessary (or if they get enough reports).

How to File a DMCA Takedown Notice

Sara Hawkins, Attorney at Law is a law firm helping entrepreneurs and digital-focused companies of all sizes with solution-focused legal services - including some great articles on how to protect yourself and your work.

Below, you'll find a direct link to the blog article on sending DMCAs. It not only teaches you about DMCAs, but also how to write one!!

Sara Hawkins (Attorney at Law) - How to File a DMCA