The Anti-Piracy Warning Seal

The graphic you see on this page—the FBI’s Anti-Piracy Warning Seal—was specifically created to deter illegal practice and to increase public awareness of the penalties associated with piracy.

Why? Because piracy of media and other commercial goods causes huge losses to the U.S. economy each year…and it’s American consumers who are paying the price.

Where will the seal (and all statements that say “FBI Anti-Piracy Warning”) appear? On a lot of different kinds of goods…subject to the terms of licensing agreements. But right now, we’re just getting started.

As of September 2004, the FBI has authorized members of the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) and the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) to use the FBI seal and “FBI Anti-Piracy Warning:” message, subject to each member entering into a formal Uniform Authorization Agreement. Association members should contact the RIAA or MPAA for more information.

Now we are evaluating the licensing arrangements we have with members of the MPAA and the RIAA with a view towards permitting the broadest possible public use of the seal by all individuals and businesses with a copyright interest. Please check this webpage periodically for updates on the status of this initiative.

In the meantime, it is perfectly fine for anyone, without FBI approval, to use the following generic language on material protected under U.S. copyright law: “Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000.”

A last word to the wise:Unauthorized use of the FBI seal, name, and initials are subject to prosecution under Federal Criminal law, including Sections 701, 709, and 712 of Title 18 of the United States Code.