Protecting your work on the web

[Pumpkinhead]

Something I was wondering about: what do current web comic authors do to ensure that people don't steal their work?

Seriously, I'm paranoid about posting any of my original work—even preliminary sketches and things like that—online in fear that someone will steal my characters or ideas. I've heard of putting what's called digital "watermarks" on your drawings but don't totally get how that works or how you create them, or how secure that tactic is. Does anyone actually register with the copyright office before they put their work up? I think that costs money, and I'm not sure if your work has to already be in the process of being published before you can do that (in other words, are you able to register for a copyright if your work is online even if you're not selling it yet?)

So yeah, if anyone had any advice/experience regarding this, that would be awesome

[Devil]

Well, I don't have advice, but my sister has the same concerns/problems as you do! She's very afraid someone is going to steal her original characters and ideas. Even though I can't help, I'm glad this forum was made. It'll help inspiring webcomic artists such as myself and sweetsnowangel.

[Rogo]

This is obviously a pretty huge concern for all people who are submitting their creative works to the internet and because it's such a huge concern, that means it's also one that people look out for. Websites like deviantart protect your ownership or your work and the community as a whole holds a zero tolerance policy on art theft.

Your work may very well get stolen, but chances are the thieves will be caught and brought to justice. It's VERY easy to accused of plagerism on deviantart, even unfairly, so honestly I wouldn't worry so much because people are looking out for it.

[Pumpkinhead]

That's a relief to hear!

In that case maybe I'll actually update my profile...I made an account like half a year ago on that site and forgot about it XD

[Feathers]

Hmm, IDK. I'm still a bit nervous myself. But you do have a good point. I was always told by people that once it is on the Internet, it never can be removed. And THAT is why I won't post anything. XD

[Rogo]

Feb 11, 2012 18:52:50 GMT -5 Feathers said:

Hmm, IDK. I'm still a bit nervous myself. But you do have a good point. I was always told by people that once it is on the Internet, it never can be removed. And THAT is why I won't post anything. XD

This is very true but all I can say to that is...

No guts, no glory.

If you can't put it out there for people to see - then why do it? That's something I learned very quickly XD