How to Respond to Plagiarism

Plagiarism and copyright violations run rampant on the Internet. It is far too easy to do, often just a matter of copy and paste. While some forms of plagiarism are not as overt, or involve non-written works, often it includes copying content verbatim. The good news is that many Internet companies have a low tolerance for the practice and individuals can respond to plagiarism effectively.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Search engine knowledge
• Copy of the DMCA
• Copyscape or alternative

Respond to Plagiarism and Get Results

1. Check for plagiarism regularly via websites such as Copyscape.com (see Resources below) and set up Google alerts on your name or key phrases in your content. Some individuals leave bylines in tact, believing that it is enough to ward off copyright complaints.
2. Example Whois report and what to look for. Look at the source of the offending website and try to determine the Internet Service Provider (ISP). ISPs may remove a website involved in plagiarism or take other effective action. To find the source, visit a domain name registrar, such as NetworkSolutions.com and use the “Whois” function for information. Make note of the “Nameservers” so that you can contact the responsible website host.
3. Notice the advertising on the website and try to determine its source. Google Adsense, for instance, is clearly identified by name. Most advertisers will suspend or terminate accounts when plagiarism or copyright violation is involved.
4. Complain effectively to the right parties in the right order. First, send a firm but unemotional response to the offending party. Include claim of ownership and request prompt removal of the copyrighted material. This alone may prompt the individual to act quickly. Sometimes people are unaware that material is copyrighted or believe it is protected under “Fair Use.” Others will fear losing their revenue capability.
5. Send a follow-up letter of intent if needed. Should this fail, report plagiarism or copyright violations to the offender's ISP and advertisers, if available. Notify these companies of your efforts at resolution. Prepare for a delayed response on large sites containing many blogs, and send additional notices of complaint every 5 to 7 days.
6. Understand your rights with regard to copyright and educate yourself on the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. Additionally, while artistic works are copyrighted without registration, legal recourse is limited. See if it is worthwhile to register your works with the U.S. Copyright Office.