Copytrack

Based in Berlin, Germany, Copytrack GmbH operates as a legal technology firm specializing in the global enforcement of image copyrights. The company was established in 2015 by Marcus Schmitt, a serial entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in founding and managing companies, including a prior role as CEO of Flightright, another legal tech venture. Schmitt's background in legal tech and identifying market gaps in online asset control directly informed the creation of Copytrack.

Copytrack's core business revolves around helping creators protect their digital images from unauthorized use. The company serves a diverse client base, including professional photographers, illustrators, publishers, news and image agencies, and e-commerce shops. The service leverages a high-performance reverse image search technology to scan the internet and detect instances of copyright infringement for its clients. This image tracking service is offered free of charge, with users able to upload an unlimited number of images for monitoring.

The firm's revenue is generated through a commission-based model. When an unauthorized use of an image is confirmed by the client, Copytrack initiates a process to recover fees. This starts with offering a post-licensing deal to the image user. If this is unsuccessful, the company escalates the claim, potentially involving a global network of legal partners to enforce the copyright claim in over 190 countries. Copytrack only takes a commission, reportedly between 30% and 45%, if it successfully recovers funds for the client, meaning there is no financial risk for the copyright holders. Additionally, the U.S.-based entity, COPYTRACK Technologies Inc., is developing a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model to license its monitoring technology to brands, IP lawyers, and marketing agencies.

Keywords: image copyright, copyright enforcement, legal tech, reverse image search, intellectual property, digital rights management, photo licensing, infringement claims, brand protection, content monitoring, Marcus Schmitt, post-licensing, royalty recovery, image protection, copyright law, digital media, content tracking, online image protection, photographer services, publisher services