How to Stop EBay from Using Your Photos

A new policy by online auction giant eBay is already causing controversy, at least to those who know about it.

In an attempt to make the site more like shopping sites like Amazon, eBay is beginning to build a library of images which can be used by anyone selling on the site. For example, anyone selling a Playstation will, once the program begins, be able to choose from a library of Playstation pictures made available by eBay but supplied by a seller.

Many are upset that eBay has implemented this policy rather quietly, and most sellers will not be aware of the change. They complain that most sellers would not agree to having their photos used, and the photos used may not accurately reflect the item being sold. eBay does plan to note in auctions that a "stock photo" is being used, and links to the seller who originally provided it.

eBay does not make it easy to keep them from using your photos. Sellers who wish to change their account settings and "opt-out" of the program have to follow a complex series of steps. To change your account settings to prevent eBay from using your pictures, follow these instructions:

*Go to "My eBay."

*Place your mouse over the "Account" tab.

*From the drop down menu that appears from the "Account" tab, select "Site Preferences."

*Under the "Selling Preferences" heading, find "Share your photos."

*Click "Show" and then click "Edit."

*Sellers will be given the option to check a box to "opt-out" of the program. Once you do, click "Submit."

Sellers who opt out of the "photo sharing" program before August 31, 2009 will not have any of their photos used. However, sellers who opt out after that date allow eBay to use any photos used before the date of opt-out. There is no way to prevent eBay from using photos used on their site before a seller opts out.