Photos get flagged as copyright when they break MLS rules or copyright law. Common reasons are photos from a previous listing without the photographer’s written permission, images copied from the internet, watermarks or logos, AI-generated or AI-altered images, and people or animals in the shot. Upload original, unaltered photos or written authorization to clear the flag.
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Beycome uses advanced technology to help protect you, as a property owner, from lawsuits, MLS fines and compliance issues related to MLS rules, under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act and copyright claims. Photos may be flagged as copyright to protect property owners, photographers, and all parties involved. These requirements come from MLS regulations and copyright laws and are not specific to Beycome.
Most common reasons photos get flagged
Photos used in a previous listing
If your photos were used in a prior listing, the MLS requires written authorization from the photographer or written permission to reuse them. Using photos taken by another agent without permission is prohibited and often automatically flagged and fined.
Photos copied from the internet
Photos downloaded from Google, Facebook, social media, or other websites—even if labeled “free to use”—are not allowed. This is a common cause of copyright flags, and violations can lead to fines under the Copyright Millennium Act.
Watermarks, logos, or branding
Photos containing contact information, websites, text overlays, watermarks, logos, or branding are not permitted and will be flagged.
AI-generated or AI-modified images
MLS rules prohibit photos that are generated, altered, or enhanced using AI tools. This includes virtual staging or edits that materially change the property.
People or animals in photos
Photos showing real people or animals are not allowed and may be flagged or rejected.
What happens when photos are flagged
When photos are flagged, your listing may be delayed, temporarily paused, or require photo replacement before it can go live or remain active.
How to resolve a copyright flag
- Remove the flagged photos and upload compliant images
- Provide written authorization from the photographer if you own the rights
- Replace the photos with original, unaltered images of the property
Once compliant photos are uploaded, the issue is usually resolved quickly.
Important note
If you believe your photos were flagged in error, please contact us directly. Automated systems can occasionally make mistakes, and our team will review the issue and help resolve it as quickly as possible.