Can I Use Images Legally?
Understanding image copyright can be confusing, but knowing the basics helps you avoid legal issues. This guide explains what you can and cannot do with images online, how copyright works, and how to choose pictures safely for quizzes, blogs, school projects, or anything else you create.
Understanding Copyright, Public Domain & CC0
Most images online are protected by copyright, meaning you cannot use them without permission. However, some images are free to use because they fall into special categories:
- Public Domain: These images are not protected by copyright. You can use them for any purpose, even commercially, without asking permission.
- CC0 (Creative Commons Zero): The creator has waived all rights. CC0 images can be copied, edited, and used commercially with no credit required.
- Creative Commons Licences: Some images allow reuse but may require attribution, non‑commercial use only, or no editing. Always check the specific licence.
CC0 and public domain images are your safest bet for legal use. Other Creative Commons licences can be used safely if you follow the rules, such as giving credit or avoiding commercial use.
What You Can Do with Images
- Use public domain or CC0 images freely
- Use Creative Commons images if you follow the licence rules
- Create your own images or take your own photos
- Use stock images with proper licences (free or paid)
- Link to images instead of embedding them, if the website allows it
- Give credit to the creator when required
What You Cannot Do
- Copy images from Google Images, social media, or other websites without permission
- Use copyrighted images for commercial purposes unless you have a licence
- Edit, crop, or redistribute images if the licence forbids it
- Assume "fair use" applies — it’s limited and often misunderstood
Tips for Staying Safe
- Always check the image’s licence before downloading or using it
- Keep a record of where each image came from and what licence it had
- Use trusted free stock sites like Unsplash, Pexels, or Pixabay
- When unsure, create your own visuals or hire someone to make them
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use images from Google?
No, not without checking the licence. Most Google images are copyrighted. - Do I need to credit CC0 images?
No, attribution is not required for CC0, though it’s always polite. - What’s the difference between CC0 and public domain?
CC0 is a legal waiver by the creator, public domain is when copyright has expired or been waived.
Following these simple rules helps you enjoy using images online without risking copyright infringement. This page provides general information about image copyright and licensing. It is not legal advice. Always check the specific licence for any image you use and consult a qualified professional if you need legal guidance.
