Complain About Getty Images - learn how to file a complaint

Best ways to complain to Getty Images

Immediate to 30 minutes on the phone, but honestly, it often feels longer with all the transfers.

🔍 Tips to Get a Quicker Response from a Complaint

• Have your account number, invoice, or the specific Image ID from the copyright letter ready before you call.
• State your desired outcome clearly. Do you want a charge removed, a claim retracted, or an account closed?
• Keep your communication firm and professional. Emotion is understandable, but a clear, factual approach is more effective.
• Always ask for a reference number for your complaint.

How to Escalate Your Complaint

If Getty Images ignores you or denies your claim, don't give up. Your first stop for escalation in the US should be the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can file a complaint on their website, and Getty Images has a history of responding to complaints filed there. It's not a court, but the public pressure often works. Be prepared to wait, though. The process can take a few weeks.

For copyright demand letters, the situation is more serious. If the demand is significant and you believe you are in the right, you may need to consult with a lawyer specializing in intellectual property law. This is a significant step, but it's often the only one that gets taken seriously when dealing with large-scale copyright enforcement.

Email Template to Complain to Getty Images

Subject: Formal Complaint: Unresolved Issue with Invoice [[Invoice #]] / Copyright Claim [[Claim Reference #]]

I am writing again to resolve an issue with my account. My previous attempt to sort this out on [[Date]] with your support team was unsuccessful, and the problem remains.

On [[Date of incident]], I received a copyright demand letter for an image used on my website, which I believe is incorrect. The reference number is [[Claim Reference #]]. Frankly, having to spend my time and resources addressing a claim I dispute has been incredibly disruptive and frustrating.

To resolve this, I require you to retract this claim immediately and provide written confirmation that this matter is closed and no further action will be taken against me.

Please be aware that if this is not resolved within 5 business days, my next step will be to file a formal complaint with the Better Business Bureau and consult with legal counsel regarding your company's practices.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.

[[Your Name]] [[Account #, if applicable]]

Additional Helpful Tips to get Your Complaint Resolved

• Get it in writing. After any phone call, send a follow-up email summarizing what was discussed and agreed upon. This creates a paper trail.
• Don't panic and pay. If you get a copyright letter, don't immediately pay the demand. Many users on forums report success by calmly disputing the claim with evidence of a license or fair use.
• Use social media for visibility. A public post on Twitter/X tagging @GettyImages can sometimes get a faster response than a private email that's been sitting in a queue for days.
• Reference their own terms. If your dispute is about licensing, quoting their own terms and conditions back to them can be a powerful way to make your case.

Tired of trying to figure out how to respond to those scary-looking Getty Images demand letters? The legal-speak, the high-pressure tactics, the endless follow-ups. It's exhausting.

Sound familiar?

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