How Agencies Are Cracking Down on Creatives Who Post Unapproved Ads

Playing with brand equity is hazardous to your career

Inspiration meets innovation at Brandweek, the ultimate marketing experience. Join industry luminaries, rising talent and strategic experts in Phoenix, Arizona this September 23–26 to assess challenges, develop solutions and create new pathways for growth. Register early to save.

Call it friendly fire. An agency art director posts an unsanctioned version of a TV ad for a client on his personal website to enhance his portfolio. It was the cut he worked on and fought for—even if that particular version didn't make the cut.

The problem is, he doesn't own the work, and neither does his agency. The clip belongs to the client, making the art director guilty of copyright infringement.

It's a scenario that's become all too familiar at agencies.

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Spring Special

Save 30% Off an ADWEEK Subscription Today!

View Your Options

Already a member? Sign in