Shutterstock, a popular stock photo site, has announced that it will provide full indemnification to enterprise users for legal claims related to images created using its AI art generator. The company will offer this protection by subjecting the AI-generated images to human review. This move aims to boost confidence in using AI and mitigate potential legal risks associated with using AI-generated artwork. Adobe has also recently introduced IP indemnity for businesses using its generative AI platform Firefly.
The Need for Legal Protection: AI-generated images on Shutterstock do not undergo the same review and vetting process as traditional stock assets. Without careful scrutiny and editing, businesses using these AI-generated images could face legal challenges. This undermines the advantages of speed and cost that AI tools offer. Businesses require assurances that the AI-generated images they use are legally safe, prompting industry leaders to address this concern.
Advancement in Protecting Customers: Shutterstock’s Vice President of Product, Jeff Cunning, emphasizes that this move is crucial for the industry, allowing creatives and business professionals to use AI-generated content without worrying about copyright infringement or ethical issues. The goal is to protect customers and artists by providing legal clarity and peace of mind. John Lapham, General Counsel at Shutterstock, acknowledges the increasing demand for assurance around the rights to legally use AI-generated content and the importance of fair licensing for original content creators.
Expanding Legal Protection: After a trial period with selected customers, Shutterstock plans to extend indemnification to all enterprise users upon request. This expansion aims to provide comprehensive legal protection to businesses utilizing AI-generated artwork and address the evolving needs of the industry.
Shutterstock’s decision to offer indemnification for AI-generated art demonstrates its commitment to ensuring legal protection and peace of mind for its enterprise users. By subjecting AI-generated images to human review, the company aims to mitigate potential legal risks associated with using such content. This move aligns with the industry’s recognition of the importance of addressing legal concerns surrounding AI-generated artwork. With legal protection in place, businesses can confidently utilize AI tools for their creative needs.