by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

You're browsing the web and you come across a piece of work that looks familiar....wait, that's YOUR work! But you didn't give that website or blog permission to publish it. So, what can you do?

First, visit ChillingEffects.org to see if your work is protected and what to do about it. There are resources to report the violations, as well as information on copyright laws as they pertain to the digital world.

I have also included examples of form letters (below) that I have used to request action regarding my own content that has been used without my permission. I am not a legal expert, just a writer who has also experienced unpleasant situations in which someone else has published my work without the rights to do so.

Please be sure to read all of the information provided at ChillingEffects.org, as well as Copyright.gov. If you feel my form letters will suit your needs after studying the copyright law, feel free to use them and edit them as needed for your personal use.

These form letters may not be sold, redistributed, or otherwise published without my permission. However, they can be used for your personal needs as necessary. I make no claims as to the legal validity of said letters. Use your own discretion.