How to avoid copyright infringement claims as a new dropshipper

Product Development & Sourcing
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Hi, I am new to shopify and I started a store to dropship fitness/activewear for women. I source my products from dropshipping companies who handle the sourcing and shipping for me. But my dropshipping company has said that it is not responsible for any intellectual property dispute. My accounts also got barred on meta due to copyright infringements. How do I navigate this.

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Hi @fitlaura ,

When using dropshipping suppliers, it’s crucial to ensure the products you sell don’t infringe on any trademarks, copyrights, or designs, since you are ultimately responsible for what’s listed on your store. To avoid intellectual property disputes and account bans, always verify that your supplier’s products are original or properly licensed, and avoid selling branded or counterfeit items. Consider sourcing from reputable suppliers who provide clear rights to sell their products, and use your own original images and descriptions instead of copying from others. Additionally, familiarize yourself with Meta’s advertising policies and intellectual property rules to prevent future account issues.

Thanks!

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Thanks for the reply, how do I ensure and verify that the images and videos are okay to use

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To avoid copyright issues, always use product images and videos that your supplier has explicitly given you permission to use, or better yet, create your own original content. Avoid copying media from other websites or stores, as that often leads to copyright claims. You can also use royalty-free images with proper licenses or customize supplier images with your branding. Make sure to keep proof of permissions or licenses to protect yourself from disputes and follow platform rules carefully to keep your accounts safe. @fitlaura

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Hi @fitlaura ,

Why you got banned on meta.

  • Your supplier’s products may infringe on copyrights or trademarks.

  • Meta bans accounts for using copied designs, brand names, or stolen images.

  • You’re legally responsible, not your supplier.

How to fix it.

  1. Remove any products that look like big brands or use brand names/logos.

  2. Stop using supplier images/descriptions—make your own content.

  3. Use trusted platforms like Spocket, Apliiq, or Printful.

  4. Appeal Meta’s ban after cleaning your store.

  5. Build your own brand to stay safe and grow long-term.

If my reply is helpful, kindly click like and mark it as an accepted solution.
Thanks!
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Hey there - thanks for bringing this up. Copyright and intellectual property (IP) issues are one of the biggest risks for new dropshippers, especially in niches like fitness or fashion where many listings (even on major supplier platforms) can use trademarked logos or stolen product images.

Here’s how to navigate it:

Why This Happens

Many dropshipping suppliers - especially those on AliExpress or other marketplaces - don’t verify copyright or trademark status. They simply upload trending items, and some may include logos, character images, or designs that are legally protected.

If you import those products (even unknowingly), you’re the seller of record - so you’re liable, not the supplier.

What You Can Do to Stay Safe1. Avoid branded or logo-style products

  • Don’t list anything that shows logos like Nike, Adidas, Marvel, Disney, etc. — even if your supplier offers them.

  • Watch for even indirect brand likenesses (“inspired by” designs are risky too).

  1. Check image usage

    • Only use product images provided by the supplier or create your own visuals. Avoid copying marketing images from competitors or influencers without permission.

  2. Choose verified or low-risk suppliers

    • If your supplier offers vague terms like “we are not responsible for IP,” treat it as a red flag.

  3. Review product names & descriptions

    • Stay away from using brand names or copyrighted terms in your product titles or ad copy.

    • Use generic terms like “compression leggings” or “wireless earphones” rather than referencing big brands.

  4. Appeal Meta bans cautiously

    • If you’ve already been flagged on Meta, review all your listings for possible IP risks and appeal with evidence showing your updated compliance.

Pro tip: When in doubt, Google the product image or title with terms like “trademark” or “copyright” to double-check if it’s known for infringement issues.