Copytrack Allegations: Intimidation and Extortion Claims

Copytrack Allegations: Intimidation and Extortion Claims

Frequently Asked Questions about Copytrack’s Practices

By Rakesh Raman

1. What is Copytrack, and what are the allegations being made against them?

Copytrack GmbH is a company based in Berlin, Germany, that claims to act on behalf of copyright holders, primarily photographers, to identify and pursue instances of unauthorised image use online.

The primary allegation is that Copytrack engages in intimidation, extortion, and financial terrorism by sending threatening emails demanding significant sums of money from website owners for alleged copyright infringements, often for images used many years prior. Critics argue that their methods are designed to scare recipients into paying rather than pursuing legitimate copyright claims.

2. What is the “modus operandi” of Copytrack?

The described modus operandi involves Copytrack identifying websites that have used images and sending emails demanding payment for supposed copyright infringement. These emails often threaten legal action in Germany or the recipient’s local jurisdiction. Critics claim that Copytrack does not always verify if their clients actually own the copyright or if a genuine infringement has occurred. They are accused of targeting unsuspecting users with aggressive demands, hoping for quick payment due to fear of legal repercussions.

3. Why does the complainant, Rakesh Raman, believe Copytrack’s claims against him are false?

Rakesh Raman states that the image Copytrack claims was used on his news site, Raman Media Network, in 2013 was not actually present in the linked articles. He argues that Copytrack is making false claims to extort money. Furthermore, he highlights that his site is primarily for philanthropic purposes and has not generated the kind of revenue Copytrack is demanding. He also contends that as a journalist using information for editorial purposes from press releases with due credit, it should not be considered copyright infringement.

[ Audio Analysis: Copytrack’s Global Extortion Campaign: Victims Speak Out ]

4. What evidence is presented to support the claim that Copytrack engages in widespread intimidation and extortion?

The articles provide several pieces of evidence. Firstly, Rakesh Raman details his own experience of receiving threatening emails. Secondly, he includes numerous links to external websites, such as Trustpilot reviews, blog posts, and news articles, where other individuals and entities share similar negative experiences and accusations of blackmail, extortion, and running a “cyber racket”. The existence of a “Copytrack Victim Support Group” also suggests a pattern of widespread complaints against the company’s practices.

5. What advice is given to those who receive emails from Copytrack demanding money?

The general advice provided is not to feel scared or immediately reply to Copytrack’s emails unless an official court summons or notice is received. It is argued that German courts likely lack jurisdiction over individuals in other countries, and pursuing legal action can be costly and time-consuming for Copytrack. There’s also the possibility that courts will not admit what are perceived as largely unfounded petitions. Recipients are urged to consider that Copytrack’s threats may be “shallow”.

6. What actions are being requested from law enforcement authorities regarding Copytrack?

Rakesh Raman is formally requesting law enforcement authorities in Germany and other relevant jurisdictions to initiate criminal proceedings against Marcus Schmitt (Copytrack’s Managing Director) and Copytrack GmbH for alleged intimidation, extortion, and running a fraudulent cyber scheme.

He also asks for prosecution using avenues of extraterritorial and universal jurisdiction, demanding compensation of US$ 1 million for the mental agony, disturbance, and losses he claims to have suffered. Finally, he requests that Copytrack be directed to cease their “nefarious activities”.

7. What arguments are made against Copytrack’s interpretation and enforcement of copyright?

Several arguments are presented. Firstly, the complainant suggests that if images are not meant to be used freely, they should have clear price tags or watermarks. Secondly, it’s argued that sending demands for payment years after alleged use, without prior warning, is akin to setting a “criminal trap”.

Thirdly, the principle of natural justice is invoked, suggesting that a notice for image removal should be the first step, rather than immediate financial demands. Lastly, it’s argued that standard journalistic practices of using information for editorial purposes with attribution should not be considered copyright infringement.

8. What is the purpose of the “Copytrack Victim Support Group”?

The purpose of the Copytrack Victim Support Group, founded by Rakesh Raman, is to provide a platform for individuals who have received threatening emails from Copytrack to share their experiences and collectively combat what they perceive as Copytrack’s “onslaught”. The group aims to expose Copytrack’s alleged “crimes” to facilitate action by law enforcement authorities. It serves as a central point for victims to connect and potentially coordinate responses to Copytrack’s demands.

[ Video: Copytrack Scam and Email Threats to Extort Money for Copyright Images Reuse ]

By Rakesh Raman, who is a national award-winning journalist and social activist. He is the founder of the humanitarian organization RMN Foundation which is working in diverse areas to help the disadvantaged and distressed people in the society.