Instagram has become one of the most popular platforms for the promotion of creations, work of photographers, and brands of different kinds. Any photo, video, graphic, and any other piece of content can reach hundreds or even millions of viewers within several hours. While that opens the door to huge success for many people, it increases the chances of the unauthorized usage of this content.
Many creators find out that their original content is used or reposted without their permission. It could be just a simple mistake, or sometimes it is done deliberately to take advantage of others’ work. Being able to react immediately is crucial, especially in case your content is crucial for your business or brand in general.
Learning how to protect your brand content on Instagram starts with understanding both your rights and the platform’s reporting process.
What Is Copyright Infringement?
Copyright protects original works that are fixed in a tangible form. Some examples of content that is usually protected by copyright on Instagram include:
· Original photographs
· Artwork and illustrations
· Videos and reels
· Written captions or creative text
· Music compositions you own
· Graphic designs and logos (in some cases, trademarks may also apply)
However, not all re-posting falls under copyright infringement. Sharing content using Instagram’s built-in functions with proper attribution if allowed may not be considered copyright infringement. Besides, ideas, concepts, or general styles are not protected by copyright, only expressions of those ideas.
When a user downloads your photograph, deletes the watermark, and re-posts it as his creation, it is an example of copyright infringement.
Gather Evidence Before Filing a Report
To save your time, it is recommended to collect the necessary information before filing a complaint. This step often saves users’ time when additional information is requested by Instagram.
· It is recommended to gather the following:
· A screenshot of the infringing content;
· URL or the username of the violating account;
· Your original photograph;
· The proof of original creation/publishing date.
For example, you found out that your photograph is used by another online shop. A quick screenshot of this post will serve as evidence later. If you are collecting proof this way, it also helps to understand Instagram screenshot rules in case you are unsure how the platform handles screenshots.
Steps to Report Copyright Infringement on Instagram
Instagram has a specific process to follow if you discover that your copyrighted work is being used on their website. It’s relatively simple and involves only one form to fill in.
Step One: Check That You Are the Owner of the Work
Only the copyright owner or their authorized representative can report a copyright violation to Instagram. Be careful when doing this because any false reports can get you into trouble.
Step Two: Find Instagram Copyright Report Form
Instagram has a copyright report form specifically created for intellectual property disputes. There you need to enter your contact information, describe your work, and indicate where it is being infringed upon.
Step Three: Enter Information Accurately
Be specific about describing your copyrighted work. Attach links to both your original work and the copy that you want to report. Do not make accusatory or aggressive statements.
Step Four: Submit Your Report
Once all the necessary information has been entered, you can submit your report. Instagram will notify you of your successful submission by email.
Depending on the situation, the platform will either delete the content, request further information, or decide that the content being reported does not violate their policies. If the issue becomes more complicated or you need follow-up support from the platform, it is useful to know where to get Instagram account assistance.
What Happens after Filing Your Report?
The time required to handle each claim depends on the complexity of the case. The straightforward cases where one can demonstrate ownership tend to go faster compared to licensing or joint ownership claims.
When Instagram deletes the content, the owner of the account gets a notification of the reasons for that. In addition, they get an opportunity to file a counter-notification if they feel the deletion was unjustified.
For this reason, it is good practice to always keep records of the originals of your work.
Preventive Measures
While there is no perfect strategy to prevent infringement, a number of preventive actions can help.
Here are some useful tips:
· Watermark your most valuable images with a barely noticeable watermark.
· Always store the original images in high resolution.
· Keep track of your publishing date.
· Check your own content regularly.
· File copyrights in your region if possible.
Many companies perform regular searches for unauthorized images online.
Protection by copyright laws is crucial to being a professional on Instagram. While it is certainly frustrating to find out that people have been using your work without permission, Instagram offers a process through which you can report any such infringement and get the offending materials removed from the platform.
It all boils down to being prepared, protecting your property, and taking timely actions. Copyright protection does not only help enforce the legal right but also protects the investment of your time and effort into each piece of content you create.