Breaching copyright can be a particular problem, especially when it comes to using pictures found on the internet, or using what someone else wrote. So a good proofreader will make a point of checking the copyright position with any images in documents or webpages that they are asked to check.
Remember, if your business doesn’t own the copyright of something, then someone else does. And using it without their consent can be expensive – there are penalties for breaking copyright law. This is why our online proofreading course takes time to spell out the dangers, and how to avoid them.
Some businesses naively think they can help themselves to anything on Google, and then get a nasty shock when a hefty bill arrives in the post.
One small business in West London was charged £2,500 for breaching copyright by a large photographic agency for using an innocuous photo of a removal van on their website. It happens.
There are some free image websites that are happy to provide good quality photos and videos, provided you credit them. And you can search for free images on Google by using the Creative Commons filter.
You can also use Pixabay for free images that you don’t have to attribute, but you may want to consider supporting them.
The same goes for copying something written. Make sure that the way you use the copy does not discredit the originator in any way, and always attribute accurately. Our proofreading course students learn all these legal aspects.
Speaking of Google, many businesses, PRs and news organisations use screenshots from Google Maps or Street View to illustrate content. This is fine, but don’t forget to credit them.
See our Proofreading Course