I too received an Aldrich Letter Dated Jan 5. I have talked to Mr. Aldrich concerning the image (just one) and told him I didnt have the money to pay ($1070). In an email a few days later he told me that his client was probably understanding and that if I paid by Thursday the 26th I would "only" have to pay $500.
My website was made over 10 years ago, the company that did it is out of business so there are no licenses to be had. So in a few days I guess I'll be popping out money that I dont have. I own a small business that in no way consciously infringed on a copyright. A takedown would have sufficed. Strong armed law.
Don't pay these scammers.
Fight them.
First, "You've got to GET MAD."
Fight Back.
Say, "I'M AS MAD AS HELL AND I'M NOT GOING TO TAKE THIS ANYMORE!".
When companies and people want your hard-earned money, don't believe everything that they tell you.
Getting educated about the facts is key.
Fight it.
S.G.