We created the Verified Rights Owner (VeRO) Program so that intellectual property owners could report listings or products that infringe on their intellectual property rights. It is in eBay's interest to ensure that infringing items are removed from the site, as they are illegal, and erode the trust of our buyers and sellers.
What is the policy?
Here are some of our basic guidelines on what to do:
Intellectual property rights owners
Only intellectual property rights owners can report eBay listings that infringe on their copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights. Sellers who are rights owners can learn more about the VeRO program and file a report from the Reporting intellectual property infringements (VeRO) - opens in new window or tab page.
Not the rights owner
Members who are not the rights owner can still help by getting in touch with the owner and encouraging them to contact us. Some rights owners who participate in the VeRO Program have created a participant page, so eBay members can find out more about their products and legal positions. Though not all VeRO participants have a page, those that do can be found at our VeRO participant pages - opens in new window or tab.
If a seller’s listing or product was removed
Sellers who believe their listing or product was removed in error, can learn more about how eBay protects intellectual property (VeRO) - opens in new window or tab.
Activity on eBay is required to follow this policy, the eBay User Agreement and all applicable laws, as well as respect the rights of third parties. If it doesn’t, eBay may take action consistent with applicable laws and the eBay User Agreement, and may even be legally required to do so. Such actions may include, as an example only: Removing the listing or other content, issuing a warning, restricting activity or account suspension.
Why does eBay have this policy?
This policy helps to ensure that eBay users trust our marketplace, and comply with the law.