Scenario

You're worried about people downloading the images from your website and using them, and want to stop people from downloading the images from your website.

 

 

Why it's IMPOSSIBLE to stop people from being able to download your images

Once an image is displayed on a webpage, it is already downloaded to the visitor’s device. Web browsers need to download the image to display it. This isn’t specific to your website; it’s just how the internet works.

Think of it like displaying artwork in a public gallery. You can put up ‘No Photography’ signs, but if someone really wants a copy, they can still take a picture or sketch it. That’s why there are countless high-resolution images of the Mona Lisa online for instnace, but that doesn’t reduce its value.

Some websites attempt to block right-clicking on images, but this doesn’t actually stop people from downloading them. In fact, it can interfere with accessibility features and frustrate legitimate users.

Instead of focusing on blocking downloads, consider that people downloading and sharing your images could actually help your business. Most likely, they’re sharing them with potential customers or others interested in your products.

For instance, google downloads / copys your images and puts them on their 'Google images' tab, of which can be a great way to gain traffic & interest to your website, which resutls in sales.

 

 

What you can do about ensuring your images aren't used maliciously

If you're really worried about people potentially stealing your images and using it for their own purpose / gain, then you can do things to ensure that images are attributed back to you, for instance -:

 

Ensure that your website terms and conditions contain policies regarding your images

One important step you can take is to include clear terms on your website stating how your images can and cannot be used. While this won’t physically prevent downloads, it could give you legal standing if someone misuses them. Of course, we're not lawyers, so it’s always best to consult a legal professional for precise wording and advice on this matter. If you want to change your terms on your website, you can do so by -:

1) Logging into your website manager

2) From the left hand menu, select 'Page editor' then 'Edit pages'

3) Find 'Terms' and click 'Edit page'

4) Enter in any information you wish here, and press the 'Save' button

 

You can water mark images

we don’t typically recommend this for product listings, as it can break the immersion of the shopping experience. Additionally, with today’s tools, watermarks can often be removed with minimal effort. That said, it’s still an option if you feel it adds an extra layer of deterrence.