Getty Images This company owns iStockPhoto and probably more. "License Compliance" borders on extortion when applied to temporary display of a COMP image. I am seeking to join a class action. Seattle,, Washington

There is no need to repeat the description of my experience that is like so many others on this rip off web site and many other sites with regard to the practices of the "compliance" department of this company. A search for "Getty Images" in combination with words like "extortion" or "rip off" results in more than enough evidence. While in the guise of "copyright" enforcement this company has turned this into what may amount to a racket or shake down. My advice to anyone receiving complaints from this company is to check the advice from others who have been victims of this practice.

As I understand it, the normal practice when there is a dispute over use of an image or alleged unauthorized use is to initially submit a cease and desist order. Getty does not do that, but simply sends a demand letter and an invoice.  I do not believe any court would enforce the "penalties" this company tries, and sometimes succeeds in collecting.

If you want to demonstrate a "comp" image to a customer, even WITH WATERMARK and reduced to 72 dpi and 1/20 of the original size, do not let it appear anywhere online because even two days of online exposure can result in a charge of $1000 or more.  Getty's main office SAYS there is no negotiation. That is actualy not the case.