Learn how Upwork handles intellectual property, from avoiding infringement to reporting misuse, filing DMCA notices, counter-notices, and spotting plagiarism.
In this article
- What is intellectual property (IP)?
- What should I avoid when it comes to intellectual property on Upwork?
- How do I report to Upwork that my intellectual property is being used without permission?
- My content was removed because someone said it violated their intellectual property, but I disagree. What should I do?
- What if I see a job or profile that looks plagiarized?
- I’m a client who received plagiarized work. What should I do?
- Where can I learn more about IP policies on Upwork?
What is intellectual property (IP)?
IP includes original creations like logos, artwork, code, writing, music, and designs, which are all protected by law. These protections ensure that creators control and benefit from their work.
What should I avoid when it comes to intellectual property on Upwork?
At Upwork, we’re committed to respecting and protecting IP rights. Here's what not to do:
- Copy or clone. Do not duplicate code, designs, or branded content without permission
- Plagiarize. Always create original work and properly credit sources
- Encourage others to violate IP rights. Never request reverse-engineering, software cracking, watermark removal, or any other IP infringement
How do I report to Upwork that my intellectual property is being used without permission?
If you believe your copyrighted work is being used on Upwork without permission, you can file a DMCA notice.
How to report
Submit a DMCA notice via our online form or email legalnotices@upwork.com.
Include key details such as:
- A description of your copyrighted work
- The URL of the infringing content
- A statement confirming your good-faith belief that the use is unauthorized
What happens after you submit a report
- We may remove or disable the reported content while we review the claim
- The user who posted it will be notified and can submit a counter-notice if they believe it was removed by mistake
My content was removed because someone said it violated their intellectual property, but I disagree. What should I do?
If your content was removed and you believe it was an error, you can submit a counter-notice within seven days. Please include:
- The specific URL of the removed content
- A sworn statement affirming your good-faith belief that the takedown was incorrect
If the original complainant does not take legal action within 14 days, we may restore the content.
What if I see a job or profile that looks plagiarized?
Please flag the post. We’ll investigate and take action if it violates our policies.
I’m a client who received plagiarized work. What should I do?
Contact the freelancer to discuss revisions, or open a dispute if necessary. You can also report it to us if you believe it violates our policies. Learn how to report suspicious activity here.
Where can I learn more about IP policies on Upwork?
Review our Terms of Service for more details.