Copyright

Internet piracy - a growing problem

The ripping off of members' copyright works is a growing hazard for journalists contributing to Internet websites, partly due to the 'anything goes' attitudes of its pioneering days, and partly to the cynical disregard of legalities by its get-rich-quick operators - some of whom are also well-known print publishers. Regrettably, national and international law is still not clear on many points, and the legal penalties for blatant copyright infringement seem to range from pathetic to laughable.

In a recent case, a CIoJ member was asked for permission to reproduce one of his works, displayed on his website, on a television documentary. He refused. Nevertheless, his work was stolen and used, against his clear instructions. When he protested, he was offered a nominal payment of £500 in compensation and settlement. The Institute's legal advisors gave their opinion that he was unlikely to obtain more in court, and indeed might have to meet both sides' legal costs. This can only be compared with a thief who, having been apprehended stealing your watch, offers to buy it instead - at a much-reduced secondhand price!

Behind the scenes, as the Institute's copyright representative, together with other similar organisations represented on the British Copyright Council, the British Photographers' Liaison Committee and other lengthily named lobbying organisations, I have been fighting for many years to protect and preserve the rights of journalists and other copyright creators against the mercenary rip-off organisations. Internet sharks are among the worst of these.

Members should continue to report similar instances, whether of print, broadcast or electronic publication, so that the Institute can take whatever action is possible in specific cases.

ALCS and DACS - Get your money here!

Every Institute member should be aware of ALCS and DACS, the 'collection societies' for secondary uses of copyright written and illustrative work respectively. Freelances in particular can gain substantial sums by simply registering their published work with the appropriate society.

In both cases, there are no joining fees if you are a member of the CIoJ - one of the many advantages of Institute membership.

Registration for ALCS couldn't be easier if you have a computer and web access. Just log on to www.alcs.co.uk, download the registration and report forms. Or ask head office to help.

The friendly DACS forms are available from Head Office. Dacs distributes annually more than £1,000,000. Make sure you get your share!

Don't forget the Institute's legal advice service if life gets really complicated.