Lisa Coppola LLC Vs. Higbee Case Summary

849 Words2 Pages

The internet has revolutionized commerce, giving rise to a thriving e-commerce industry. However, this digital marketplace also presents challenges regarding intellectual property (IP) rights. The case of Lisa Coppola LLC v. Higbee (2019) exemplifies these complexities, highlighting the legal and ethical concerns surrounding online imagery and its licensing. This essay will delve into the background of the case, analyze the key legal and ethical issues, explore its significance for the e-commerce industry, and propose solutions to protect online merchants using IP laws. Background of Lisa Coppola LLC v. Higbee Lisa Coppola LLC, a legal firm, filed a lawsuit against Mathew K. Higbee, Esq., Nicholas Youngson, and RM Media Ltd. (Higbee Defendants) …show more content…

The primary legal issue centered on copyright infringement. The Higbee Defendants argued their website displayed "clear, prominent, and unambiguous language" regarding licensing (Creative Commons Legal Database, 2020). However, the question remained whether the terms were truly transparent or designed to mislead users into infringement. Ethically, the case highlights the tension between open access and creator compensation. The "free for use" label suggests an open approach, potentially attracting users. However, hidden licensing requirements can be seen as exploitative, discouraging content usage and hindering creativity. Significance to the E-commerce Industry The Lisa Coppola case holds immense significance for the e-commerce industry. E-commerce merchants heavily rely on compelling visuals to attract customers. The case highlights the vulnerability of online businesses to copyright infringement claims, potentially leading to lawsuits and financial losses. Additionally, the ethical concerns surrounding potentially deceptive licensing practices can damage consumer trust and brand …show more content…

This process provides immediate assurance of proper usage rights before publishing the image. 3. What is the difference between a'smart' and a'smart'? Promoting Ethical Practices: Industry leaders and e-commerce platforms can play a vital role in promoting ethical practices concerning online imagery. This can involve educational initiatives for merchants on responsible image sourcing and copyright compliance. Application: E-commerce platforms like Shopify can offer educational resources within their dashboards explaining copyright basics, outlining responsible image sourcing practices, and highlighting the benefits of using royalty-free image libraries. Conclusion: The Lisa Coppola case serves as a cautionary tale for the e-commerce industry. By understanding IP rights, implementing clear licensing practices, utilizing technological solutions, and promoting ethical practices, online businesses can navigate the digital marketplace with confidence. Collaboration among industry stakeholders, technological • Casetext. (2019, May 24). In: Journal of Science. Lisa Coppola, LLC v. Higbee, Case No. 1:19-cv-00678 -

Open Document