Artificial intelligence (AI) has introduced new ways to edit images, including the removal of watermarks that would otherwise identify and protect original works. This technological shift makes it easier for unauthorised users to repurpose creators’ images and designs without permission. From an intellectual property standpoint, such unauthorised activity raises serious concerns, not least because it can be difficult to prove ownership or control how your images circulate once watermarks disappear.
Creators, artists, and organisations seeking to protect their work in this evolving environment can take several important steps to limit infringement and preserve their rights.
First, although copyright attaches to work automatically upon creation in many jurisdictions, formal registration (where available, such as in the United States) can strengthen your legal position. Accurate and up-to-date records of when and how the work was created can be invaluable if you need to enforce your rights.
Second, digital protection should go beyond simple watermarks. Embedding hidden metadata (such as EXIF data) helps track usage, and certain software tools enable you to scan the internet for copies of your images. By combining visible and invisible identifiers, you bolster your ability to detect unauthorised distribution, even if watermarks are stripped out.
Third, implementing clear licensing practices or digital rights management (DRM) measures provides a formal framework for how others can use your material. Setting explicit conditions and monitoring compliance ensures that infringement becomes easier to spot and address if it does occur. When working with collaborators or third parties, strong legal agreements play a vital role, clarifying how your images can be used and specifying the consequences of breach.
Taking a proactive stance matters because failing to protect your works can lead to financial losses, erosion of brand value, and difficulty in asserting rights later on. Over time, infringement may undermine your reputation, especially if unauthorised users distribute modified images that misrepresent the quality or authenticity of the originals. Without any recorded evidence, you may find it difficult to mount a robust case or claim damages for lost opportunities.
The support of a legal adviser can be crucial in achieving a comprehensive strategy. A firm like us at Panoramix IP can assess your particular vulnerabilities, draft tailored agreements, recommend monitoring and enforcement solutions, and coordinate actions across different jurisdictions.
With AI continuing to push the boundaries of content manipulation, adopting a layered IP protection approach which covers registration, digital tracking, contract management, and rapid enforcement, tying IP protection in with your content creation strategy remains the most reliable way to preserve and monetise your original images.
Next Steps and How Panoramix IP Can Help
If you’re concerned about AI-driven infringement or want to ensure your images remain fully protected, Panoramix IP can guide you through every phase of image rights management. We advise on copyright registration, contracts, infringement monitoring, and enforcement measures, all tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to discuss how our dual-qualified attorneys can help protect your valuable content from current or future infringements in the rapidly changing digital world.
