How to Report Stolen Art on Instagram
In today’s digital age, social media platforms like Instagram have become a breeding ground for art enthusiasts and collectors. However, this popularity also makes it an easy target for art theft. If you have come across stolen art on Instagram and want to take action, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to report it.
1. Gather Evidence
Before reporting stolen art, it’s crucial to gather as much evidence as possible. Take screenshots of the stolen artwork, including any relevant details such as the caption, hashtags, and comments. This evidence will be helpful for Instagram’s support team to understand the situation better.
2. Identify the Original Artist
If you know the original artist of the stolen artwork, it’s essential to provide their information. You can search for the artist’s profile on Instagram or other social media platforms to gather their contact details. Having the artist’s information will help Instagram take appropriate action and notify them about the stolen art.
3. Report the Stolen Art
To report stolen art on Instagram, follow these steps:
a. Go to the profile of the account where the stolen art is posted.
b. Tap on the three dots located at the top right corner of the post.
c. Select “Report.”
d. Choose “It’s spam or abuse” and then tap “Next.”
e. Select “It violates Instagram’s community guidelines” and then tap “Next.”
f. Choose “Copyright or intellectual property violation” and then tap “Next.”
g. Fill in the required information, including the URL of the stolen artwork and any additional details you have gathered.
h. Tap “Submit” to report the stolen art.
4. Follow Up
After reporting the stolen art, it’s important to follow up with Instagram’s support team. You can do this by visiting your Instagram profile, going to the “Help” section, and selecting “Contact Us.” Explain the situation and provide any additional information that may be helpful.
5. Notify the Original Artist
Once you have reported the stolen art, it’s a good idea to notify the original artist. Share the evidence you have gathered and inform them about the steps you have taken. This will help them take further action, such as reporting the stolen art to other platforms or legal authorities.
6. Spread Awareness
Lastly, spread awareness about the stolen art on your own Instagram account or other social media platforms. Use relevant hashtags and share the story to help bring attention to the issue. This can encourage others to report the stolen art and increase the chances of it being recovered.
By following these steps, you can play a crucial role in combating art theft on Instagram. Remember, reporting stolen art is not only about protecting the rights of the original artist but also preserving the integrity of the art community.
