posted on August 10, 2002 03:21:27 PM new
I have had problems with people taking images off of my auctions and using them for their own use. I have been charged by AuctionWatch for them. They have promised to look into this and reimburse me for these charges. Has anyone else run into this problem? If so, was it resolved to your satisfaction?
posted on August 10, 2002 04:45:02 PM new
Hi cowcollector1,
Unfortunately, image theft is a problem at eBay. First address the theft, by reporting the seller to [email protected], so idealy they discontinue their theft, or at least by simply taking your URL which causes you to be charged by us.
Then, if you have not done so already, request a refund for the charges from us.
posted on August 10, 2002 05:50:20 PM new
The easiest thing to do with others stealing your images or text is to register with the VERO program on Ebay. I am registered with VERO because, like you, I was/am having problems with lazy sellers lifting my work. I have had several seller's auctions immediately bounced and believe me... it feels good to see that.
It is relatively easy to register your work and is worth every minute it takes. When you make a complaint about someone lifting your work to Ebay, they do not send you their canned message that they will look into it within 36 hours; they end the problem auction/s immediately! No ifs, ands, or buts.
Every honest seller should have their work copyrighted. There are too many flakes out there ready to make a quick buck off of the hard work others.
posted on August 15, 2002 03:27:32 PM new
You can use your graphic program to add a watermark to each image. I use my web site address. You can create a watermark with a transparent background so not much of the image is obscured. I have found that a light to medium blue can be used with just about all images.
You can create a watermark by creating a small image with a transparent background and enter your watermark text such as "Scanned by MyName" or ""www.MySite.Com". In PhotoImpact you can store the watermark in your library dialog so it is always visable. You just drag it onto your image and resave it.
posted on August 15, 2002 08:25:26 PM new
Wow! I just checked my account with Auction Watch and I was surprised to see that some one was stealing one of my images and used it about a dozen times! I have just now deleted it completely! It was a just patriotic ribbon for decoration anyway, so it did not interfere with my auctions. I have Photosuite and I do not think it has the watermark feature. I sure wish it did. Thanks for the information. I will watch my account closer..It would be nice if Auction Watch came up with a program to protect our photos. :^)...good luck all...WCP
posted on August 19, 2002 08:23:02 PM new
When I had someone stealing my images, I just changed the name of the image and uploaded a new image with that same name. Now when they use the stolen image they get a picture of my big toe. Most people don't check their auctions especially if it is recurring. This image swap really makes them mad, but is effective. You just got to beat them at their own game!
posted on August 23, 2002 11:48:09 AM new
Hi, When I looked at my Auction Watch account and the charges for listing, and final value fee, I also noticed some charges for "image fees". I know that they are free with my service since I am a subscriber. When you look at those charges they have the Auction Item that it goes with and it was from a different seller! So I just deleted my picture all together. I don't care if anyone wants to steal my pictures, JUST AS LONG AS I DON'T HAVE TO PAY THEIR IMAGE FEES...lol...WCP
If you get charged for that image, you may request a refund for it as long as you state that it was a stolen image. If you have access to a graphics program, may I suggest placing some type of watermark on your images such as your eBay ID in the corner. This should prevent that from happening in the future.
[ edited by estatesalestuff on Aug 16, 2002 02:44 AM ]