As a content creator, protecting your work is the foundation of your business. At LeakyProof, we’re dedicated to helping creators understand and defend their rights. Here are five practical tips to help you safeguard your content online.

Tip #1: You Always Own Your Copyright

The moment you create your content—whether it’s images, videos, or writing—you automatically own the copyright. Posting it online does not take away your rights. You retain exclusive control over distribution, monetization, and reproduction.

Tip #2: Use Watermarks Strategically

Watermarks aren’t just for “big” creators—they’re for everyone. They discourage theft, build recognition, and strengthen your case in takedown requests.

Best practices:

Use subtle or semi-transparent marks.

Place them in areas difficult to crop out.

Include your logo, name, or website.

For videos, consider animated or moving watermarks.

Tip #3: Don’t Rely Only on Platforms

While platforms offer reporting tools, they won’t catch every infringement. You are your own first line of defense.

What to do:

Regularly monitor where your content appears.

Use specialized tools like LeakyProof to detect leaks.

Learn each platform’s copyright/reporting process.

Tip #4: Track Misuse Proactively

Finding stolen content is more achievable than many think. Reverse image searches, fingerprinting, and automated scans can help you locate copies of your work.

LeakyProof tools:

Scheduled scans to identify leaks.

Alerts for unexpected uploads of your content.

Support in documenting evidence for removal or legal action.

Tip #5: Know When Legal Help Is Needed

You don’t always need a lawyer to protect your content. Many actions—watermarking, reporting, sending takedowns—can be done independently.

When to consider legal support:

Large-scale or repeated piracy.

Criminal or organized misuse.

International disputes.

Major financial loss.

Use LeakyProof’s monitoring tools to catch leaks early.

Watermark your work to discourage theft.

Keep backups with timestamps for evidence.

Search regularly for unauthorized copies.

File takedown notices quickly.

Leverage platform protection features wherever you publish.

Consult legal help for major or complex cases.

Final Thoughts

Copyright protection isn’t just a legal concept—it’s the backbone of your creative identity and income. By following these tips and using LeakyProof’s tools, you can stay in control, reduce risks, and focus on what matters most: creating.