My front-end portfolio and a major project have been copied, with the plagiarizer adding their name and claiming it as their own. What actions can I take?

Dealing with a Copied Front-End Portfolio: What Are My Options?

Hello everyone,

I’ve recently discovered that someone has copied my front-end portfolio website, including one of my largest projects. They have put their name on it and are now showcasing it as their own work. I’m contemplating whether I should take legal action or simply accept the inherent risks of making my private projects public.

For those interested in checking this out, here are the relevant links:

Edit: I’ve made my portfolio code repository private based on some helpful comments.

In addition, they’ve copied my main portfolio project (a NextJS application) to their GitHub, altered the commit authorship, and showcased this application in the projects section of their portfolio, linking it to their own GitHub account.

You can view the original application code on my GitHub: github.com/matt765/daydash

Edit: I’ve added a license to my repository, as per some great advice I received.

I had previously shared both the portfolio and the application on Reddit, so it may look familiar to some of you.

I’m grateful for any advice or guidance on how to handle this situation.

Hubsadmin

2 responses to “My front-end portfolio and a major project have been copied, with the plagiarizer adding their name and claiming it as their own. What actions can I take?”

  1. I’m sorry to hear about your situation. Having your work copied without permission can be frustrating and disheartening. While it’s upsetting, there are several steps you can take to address this issue. Here’s a detailed plan of action to help you navigate this situation:

    1. Assessment and Documentation

    Before taking any action, it’s important to gather evidence of the infringement:

    • Screenshots and URLs: Take screenshots of both websites, including their code structure if possible. Save all relevant URLs.
    • GitHub Evidence: Document any discrepancies in commit histories and changes to the author’s name.
    • Text Comparison: Use online tools to compare text, code snippets, and project details between the two websites.

    2. Review Legal Protection

    Determine whether your work is legally protected:

    • Licensing: Since you’ve mentioned adding a license, document when the original work was released and under what terms. Common licenses like MIT, GPL, or Creative Commons can help clarify usage rights.
    • Consider Copyright: In many jurisdictions, original works are automatically protected by copyright laws. Document the creation date and any public release information.

    3. Contact the Infringer

    If you feel comfortable, consider reaching out directly:

    • Polite Email/Message: Sometimes a polite request can resolve the issue. Explain your position and ask them to remove or properly attribute the copied work.

    Example Template:

    “`
    Subject: Unauthorized Use of My Portfolio Content

    Hi [Infringer’s Name],

    I recently discovered that my portfolio website and project, originally showcased at [your original portfolio URL], have been copied and presented on your website at [infringer’s portfolio URL].

    I appreciate your interest in my work, but I must request that you either remove or properly attribute the copied material, in line with the licensing terms I’ve specified.

    Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this matter.

    Best regards,
    [Your Name]
    “`

    4. Filing a DMCA Complaint

    If direct contact fails, consider filing a DMCA takedown request with the hosting provider or the platform hosting the copied content (like GitHub):

    • Netlify and GitHub: Both platforms have established procedures for handling DMCA complaints.
    • Prepare a DMCA Notice: Include your personal details, a description of the copyrighted material, and a statement of good faith belief in the infringement.

    5. Consult Legal Advice

    If the issue persists and the infringement

    Reply

  2. Hi Matt,

    I’m really sorry to hear about your situation—it’s frustrating and disheartening when someone misappropriates your hard work. You’ve already taken some proactive steps by making your code repository private and adding a license, which are definitely important moves to protect your intellectual property.

    In addition to those steps, here are a few more actions you might consider:

    1. **Document Everything**: Make sure to keep a detailed record of the evidence showing the timeline of your original work versus the copied work. This includes screenshots, timestamps, and links to the original content. This way, you have all the information handy if you decide to take further action.

    2. **Reach Out to the Offender**: Sometimes, a direct and polite message explaining that you’re aware of their appropriation can prompt them to take your work down. They may not fully understand the implications of what they’re doing.

    3. **Contact Hosting Platforms**: If they don’t respond or refuse to comply, consider filing a DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act) takedown notice with their hosting provider or any platform displaying their portfolio. Most companies take these matters seriously and will investigate.

    4. **Leverage Social Media**: Share your experience on social media or professional networks like LinkedIn. This can not only alert potential employers or collaborators about the issue but may also garner support from the community, encouraging the offender to reconsider their actions.

    5. **Seek Legal Advice**: If the copied work significantly impacts your reputation or career

    Reply

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