ExtortionLetterInfo Forums

ELI Forums => Getty Images Letter Forum => Topic started by: SoylentGreen on July 16, 2012, 04:31:13 PM

Title: anybody actually paying Getty or Masterfile now that they've failed in court?
Post by: SoylentGreen on July 16, 2012, 04:31:13 PM

Question for readers here:

Is anybody actually considering paying a settlement to Getty Images or Masterfile now that both have lost major court cases based on legal standing?

S.G.

Title: Re: anybody actually paying Getty or Masterfile now that they've failed in court?
Post by: Robert Krausankas (BuddhaPi) on July 16, 2012, 04:33:58 PM

ummm yeah, I'll get right on that!...

Title: Re: anybody actually paying Getty or Masterfile now that they've failed in court?
Post by: Greg Troy (KeepFighting) on July 16, 2012, 04:51:13 PM

It will be interesting to see once the word starts getting out if there is a drop in payments, however I don't think we know what percentage were paying before the ruling.  As far as it goes for me, I have always felt that this is wrong and unjust and never had any intentions of paying an over inflated bill from Getty especially without proof of claim. 

Title: Re: anybody actually paying Getty or Masterfile now that they've failed in court?
Post by: Robert Krausankas (BuddhaPi) on July 16, 2012, 04:55:25 PM

I have in my hand a fresh getty letter...demanding 780.00 for one image, so yes they have dropped their "rates" somewhat..they won't be getting paid tho..

Quote from: Greg Troy (KeepFighting) on July 16, 2012, 04:51:13 PM

It will be interesting to see once the word starts getting out if there is a drop in payments, however I don't think we know what percentage were paying before the ruling.  As far as it goes for me, I have always felt that this is wrong and unjust and never had any intentions of paying an over inflated bill from Getty especially without proof of claim.

Title: Re: anybody actually paying Getty or Masterfile now that they've failed in court?
Post by: Matthew Chan on July 16, 2012, 05:14:01 PM

SG,

You know that is a silly question.  :) People will continue to fall for the extortion scheme all the time regardless of the court rulings.

There will always be someone dumb, ignorant, or spineless enough to pay.

Title: Re: anybody actually paying Getty or Masterfile now that they've failed in court?
Post by: lucia on July 16, 2012, 06:05:44 PM

When people first receive these letters it is quite natural for them to be entirely unaware of the law, the habits of these companies and their track record in court.  It's quite likely a number will not immediately run a google search to learn that these letters are common and that court rulings often go against these companies. So, I'm sure some will continue to pay.

Luckily though ELI exists and many can find information quickly. Currently, we have quite a bit amount of good information for Americans who receive letters. Less information exists for those in other countries-- but that will accumulate over time too.