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Encouraging infringement policy

Sellers may not use the eBay site to enable, encourage or instruct others to infringe copyrights, trademarks or other rights.

Some Examples

The following are examples of listings that are not permitted on eBay:

  • A link to a Web site that sells bootleg recordings
  • An eBook describing how to defeat copy-protection and copy DVDs
  • A listing offering an authentic Rolex box and suggesting buyers use it to sell a counterfeit watch
  • An empty branded box, pouch, or tin that could be potentially used to hold and sell a similar or identical product. The exceptions to this are empty vintage boxes, pouches, or tins that can generally be considered collectable items and are sold for such purposes
  • A certificate or warranty, blank or still valid, without the accompanying product
  • A Web site or URL where the bidders can download copyright protected music
  • A listing offering original software and encouraging the high bidder to make a backup copy and resell the original
  • Instructions on how to install a mod-chip in a video game console

Additional Information

For more information about intellectual property rights, see any of the following sources:

Why does eBay have this policy?

eBay urges sellers and buyers to comply with all governmental laws and regulations. Since copyright and trademark infringement is prohibited by law, sellers may not use eBay to encourage other members to infringe on these rights. This policy helps protect buyers from purchasing counterfeit or fraudulent items, helps protect intellectual property rights owners against infringement, and helps create a safer marketplace.

Activity on eBay is required to follow this policy, the eBay User Agreement and all applicable laws, as well as respect the rights of third parties. If it doesn’t, eBay may take action consistent with applicable laws and the eBay User Agreement, and may even be legally required to do so. Such actions may include, as an example only: Removing the listing or other content, issuing a warning, restricting activity or account suspension.

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