Have you noticed... just the INSANE Amount of Wallpapers, that have absolutely NO credit linked or shown on them? I noticed it, really for like the first time a few days back, when searching for a wallpaper for this new widescreen monitor.

I googled, " Widescreen Desktop Wallpaper "

First thing I got, was a Lime splash wallpaper. And the first comment under it was reporting a copyright violation, and linking to the source.. but it was still up, and has been for some time. I report Copyright Violations when I see them, like most should. But, When I realized that there wasn't a way to really report them, I was pretty struck.

There were so many. Hot Girls, Cars, Art, Vectors, I even found some art from DA that I recognized right off the bat. I really became curious, Do people have permission to use these images, or do they just do it, with the " No copyright infringement intended " Line threw in to make themselves feel better about stealing?


Now, I realize, I myself make wallpapers using others art, but I either purchase a license to use it, have permission from the artist themselves, and i always supply credit.. The way it should be. At least I think so.

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So, my friends, Some ways to help fight, the ugly monsters we call Art Thieves. It's not a huge list, but can get you started if you ever find yourself lost.

How do you report Copyright Violations, and art theft?

Ripped Art Task Force

Photobucket Terms & Conditions, including contact info : [link]

Copyright Basics: [link]

Reporting Videos on You Tube: [link]

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Protect By "Marking Your Territory"
Now, even if you find out that someone HAS “infringed” on your copyright, and you can prove that the copyright symbol was next to the image of your artwork that they copied, you’ll have a very strong case against them if the issue ever goes to court—which is exactly why so many artists choose to put up that copyright notice. It may be "ugly" for a bit, but, even a small mark, will do the job.


and, the US Copyright Office
[link]