In a perfect world, no one would ever steal photos or videos. But in this world, you need to know how to report stolen Instagram content.
What do I mean by stolen Instagram content? When someone takes an original video or photo that you’ve posted and shares it as their own without giving you credit. That’s intellectual property theft and it sucks.
The good news is that Instagram does actually have an official way to report stolen content, and they usually do take action on the reports if you take the time to file one.
I’ve helped a few of you report stolen Instagram content recently, so I thought it was worth writing out the instructions for anyone else who might be wondering!
How to report stolen Instagram content.
When I find an account that has stolen my Instagram content, I usually start with a polite but firm message asking them to edit the caption to credit me as the photographer. If that doesn’t work, I file a Copyright Infringement Report with Instagram.
This is how Instagram defines copyright:
Copyright is a legal right that seeks to protect original works of authorship (ex: books, music, film, art).
Generally, copyright protects original expression such as words or images. It does not protect facts and ideas, although it may protect the original words or images used to describe an idea. Copyright also doesn’t protect things like names, titles and slogans; however, another legal right called a trademark might protect those.”
Someone stealing your original image or video and posting on their own Instagram account without giving you credit is copyright violation.
To get started, go to this page and click on “Learn more about reporting copyright violations.” You can do this through the Instagram app’s help center, but I find that it’s easier in a web browser.
This will take you to a Copyright FAQ page. Click on the tiny hyperlink at the end of the first paragraph that says “this form” to go to the actual form.
The form starts by asking you if you’re reporting a copyright or a trademark infringement. We’re talking simple copyright violation today, so that’s what you’re going to select.
Here’s what’s next:
If someone has stolen your photos or videos and posted them as their own without your permission, you want “I found content which I believe infringes my copyright.”
Next, Instagram will remind you that copyright reporting is serious business and you shouldn’t do it unless someone’s actually violated your copyright. Again, if someone has taken your original photos/videos and posted them on Instagram without your permission or proper credit, that’s a violation of your copyright.
It’s pretty straightforward from here, but I’m going to walk you through it anyway. This has happened to me enough times that I think everyone on IG should know how to report stolen Instagram content.Read More
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