How do you secure your portfolio from theft?

1 Use watermarks and low-resolution images

One of the simplest ways to deter thieves from copying your portfolio is to add watermarks and use low-resolution images. Watermarks are subtle logos or texts that overlay your images and indicate your ownership. Low-resolution images are smaller and less detailed than high-resolution images, making them harder to reuse or edit. You can use tools like Photoshop, Canva, or PicMonkey to create watermarks and resize your images.

2 Register your copyright

Another way to secure your portfolio is to register your copyright with the appropriate authorities. Copyright is the legal right that grants you exclusive control over your original work. By registering your copyright, you can prove your ownership and take legal action against infringers. Depending on your location, you may need to pay a fee and submit an application form and a copy of your work to register your copyright. You can also add a copyright notice to your portfolio, such as ? 2021 Your Name.

3 Use online platforms with security features

If you host your portfolio online, you should use platforms that offer security features to protect your work. For example, you can use platforms that prevent right-clicking, downloading, or screenshotting your images, such as Format, Squarespace, or Wix. You can also use platforms that encrypt your data and use secure sockets layer (SSL) certificates, such as WordPress, Behance, or Dribbble. These platforms can help you prevent unauthorized access and copying of your portfolio.

4 Monitor your portfolio regularly

Even if you take precautions to secure your portfolio, you should still monitor your portfolio regularly to check for any signs of theft or plagiarism. You can use tools like Google Alerts, TinEye, or Copyscape to track your portfolio online and receive notifications if your work is used without your permission. You can also use social media and online forums to network with other graphic designers and report any suspicious cases of theft or plagiarism.

5 Take action if you find theft or plagiarism

If you find that someone has stolen or plagiarized your portfolio, you should take action to stop them and restore your rights. You can start by contacting the person or the platform that hosts the infringing work and requesting them to remove it or credit you properly. You can also send them a cease and desist letter or a digital millennium copyright act (DMCA) takedown notice to demand them to comply. If they refuse or ignore your requests, you may need to consult a lawyer and pursue legal action.

6 Educate yourself and others about ethical practices

Finally, you can secure your portfolio by educating yourself and others about ethical practices in graphic design. You should respect the intellectual property rights of other designers and avoid copying or imitating their work. You should also cite your sources and give credit where credit is due. You should also promote ethical practices among your peers and clients and raise awareness about the importance of protecting your portfolio from theft and plagiarism.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?