If any nurses are thinking of building a web site, beware.

[GS]

I recently became aware that occasionally when some people
construct a web site they borrow bits of existing pictures from
other Internet sites. Unbeknown to them there are companies
out there searching for such copyright infringements and either
demand payment or threaten to sue. It is easily done and
companies are making money from it. Furthermore they
rarely accept a withdrawal and an apology without a payment.

[wilfb]

Hello GS.

It's called copyright... It is both complex and also very simple! The best advice - if you do not own the material you want to use and do not have permission to use it - don't!

Building websites of any quality takes a great deal of time and a great deal of effort, not to mention heartache (and often headache!). Maintaining one is equally fraught....

But take heart, most people who own copyright (text, photographs et al) will more often than not give permission - just don't abuse it. The fact that someone has kindly (or for money) allowed use doesn't mean for whatever you like forever! Say what you want the material for and if you get permission only use it for the purpose you stated at the time.

The whole subject is also very complex, but asking permission is very simple! Occaisionally someone will say no, or not reply. That's a 'No'.

Taking code used behind websites without permission is a no, no, no, no, no........  If you do that you are deep within the minefield.....

But having said that, most people are incredibly helpful - at least with regard to nursing.

If you want more about copyright 'Google' it - or get a good lawyer!  My personal thoughts, and this may surprise you, I have never regretted putting this site together - but it would have been quite impossible without a large group of people I didn't even know at the time!

Stealing is not necessassary....

Will.