pixsy.com

False Allegation

On the 2nd August, 2021, I received an allegation from Pixsy that I had used an image, without authorisation, on my business website. They claimed that the image was the intelletual property of a named copywright agent and that I was required to pay a licensing fee for its use.Having created my business website using a highly reputable self-build platform, I had utilised their free images library. I immediately spoke with my website host, as well as forwarding them the allegations from Pixsy. They are able to confirm that the image was theirs and that Pixsy should forward any allegations to their team who specialise in copywright infringement. I informed Pixsy of this, in writing, as well as confirming the email address to whom they should forward the case.Despite this, I received a 'Second Notice' on 13.08.2021. This notice made no reference to my previous correspondence and threatened to escalate my case to their partner attorney to initiate legal proceedings. I immediately called their London office via the number on the email.I spoke with one of the 'Case Management' team who admitted that the second email had been sent in error and that they would pursue the claim via Wix. This telephone operator did not disclose her name and was reluctant to engage in conversation as soon as she identified that I was the 'defendent' in this scenario.Having investigated this online, there is a lot of evidence that this business genuinely support artists whose legitimate copywright has been infringed. However, there is also ample evidence that they actively seek to extort money from new and small businesses who may not have the forsesight or resources to identify a potential scam. I am a small business owner, fortunately with a specialism in the legal sector. As such, I will not be paying their demands for a licensing fee. Instead, I shall await any notice from my website host that the image should be removed from circulation.

Date of experience: Aug 13, 2021