Here are some steps you can take to safeguard your creative content and prevent unauthorized use of your work:

1. Use Watermarks or Low-Resolution Files 🛡️

A good practice is to deliver a slightly incomplete, lo-res (MP3), or watermarked file, prior to final delivery of hi-res files. This way you can get confirmation from the client that everything is in order creatively, and from a production standpoint. If you have the client's approval, prior to your final delivery, then there should be little reason to contest your final delivered work.

If you don't offer a 100% guarantee, clients cannot receive a refund if the service was delivered according to your service terms.

2. Include Use Terms in Your Service Description 📜

Clearly outline the scope of use for your work in your service description. Specify whether your work includes commercial rights, requires credit attribution, or is for demo use only. This helps set clear expectations with clients upfront. You can always ask the client the intended use of the work / tracks before they place the order (most orders start with an initial reach out).

3. Deliver Final Files Only After Payment is Confirmed ✅

Ensure the client has paid (confirm by checking your "Manage Sales" or "Revenues" pages) and only send the completed, high-quality files after the client has indicated their approval of the work.

4. Keep a Clear Communications Trail 📂

To protect yourself and ensure a smooth collaboration, always keep a written record of project details, deliverables, and agreed-upon terms within AirGigs' messaging system -not in external emails or private chats.

✅ Discuss key details upfront – Clearly outline the Scope of Work, deadlines, revisions, and intended use of the final work.
✅ Confirm agreements in writing – If a client requests changes or additional work, just make sure you follow up in writing within the platform.
✅ Keep all communication within AirGigs – This ensures there's a verifiable record in case of a dispute, making it easier to resolve issues fairly.

A clear message history protects both sellers and buyers by providing a transparent reference if any misunderstandings arise.

5. Monitor and Enforce Your Rights 🔍

You can use reverse image searches, audio recognition tools, or content ID systems (for music and video) to track unauthorized use of your work. If you find your work being used without permission, you may file a DMCA takedown request or contact the platform hosting it.

6. Consider Using Contracts ✍️

For larger or custom projects, a contract outlining usage rights, payment terms, and ownership agreements can provide additional legal protection.

By implementing these measures, you can minimize the risk of unauthorized use and ensure your creative work is properly valued and protected. Please note that the AirGigs team cannot provide legal advice, but if you have concerns about a specific case, feel free to reach out to us for any feedback if possible.

7. Register Your Work with a Copyright Office ©️

In most cases on AirGigs, buyers and sellers operate under a work-for-hire arrangement, meaning the client typically owns the final work. However, in some situations - such as when a seller retains rights or offers licensing instead of full ownership - registering your work with a copyright office can provide additional legal protection.

When Copyright Registration Might Be Useful:

✅ Songwriters & Composers: If you’re creating custom compositions but not transferring full rights, registering your work can help establish ownership in case of disputes.
✅ Producers & Mix Engineers: If you create unique sound design elements or arrangements and want to license them rather than sell them outright, copyright registration adds legal backing.
✅ Graphic Designers & Visual Artists: If you provide album artwork, logos, or branding with specific usage rights, registration can protect against unauthorized reproduction.

How It Helps:

  • Provides official proof of ownership 📜 (useful in case of legal disputes).
  • Enables you to enforce your rights 🔍 (e.g., filing a DMCA takedown if your work is used without permission).