A freelancer uploaded a paid Shopify theme (Motion) to a store, renamed as “Advance-motion,” and demanded $100 to publish it, claiming a discount with a total cost of $250, despite the store owner not requesting a purchase. Initially unpublished, the owner later published the store, tightened security (updated verification/passwords), and questioned the theme’s legitimacy.
Key clarification: The theme can function technically, but a valid license is required to use it legally. Motion is a Shopify Theme Store–exclusive theme (by Archetype), so discounts outside the Theme Store are doubtful. Proper licensing requires purchase via the Theme Store for the specific store; transferring a license involves re-purchasing for the store and obtaining a refund from Shopify, as outlined in the linked guidance.
Outcome: The owner removed the freelancer and deleted the uploaded theme. They were advised to purchase the theme legally through the Shopify Theme Store if they wish to use it and to be cautious of potential scams.
Status: Resolved with a clear course of action (do not use the unlicensed theme; buy legitimately). Links provided for policy and license transfer process.
Summarized with AI on December 30.
AI used: gpt-5.
I have been aproached by a freelancer to help me improving my store…he has uploaded a theme on my store with the version 6.2.0. I dont know if that is legit or not and im wondering what should i do? he is expecting me to send a payment of 100$ after that he can publish the store , right now he is working to improve the store . Can he upload an already paid theme to my store and still be legit? I have informed myself and that can be done but im not sure , I dont want to do anything illegaly.
He did not , he said after i pay the 100$ he will publish, he said that he got a discount for that theme and the tolat cost will be 250$ …funny thing i didn’t requested him to buy the theme … Right now he is working on the theme …i have updated my verification steps and password and i should be fine i guess i case something happens
If they’ve got it from Shopify, it needs to be legally transferred to you.
The way to transfer theme license between stores was discussed at this thread https://community.shopify.com/post/1724376 and it’s a complex-ish process which involves re-purchasing the theme from the theme store for your shop and then getting a refund from Shopify.
Unless this is done, I believe you have no legal right to use this theme.
Purchasing this theme for your store will make the uploaded copy legit too, if you wish to use it.
feel free to contact if you need any further detail or help.