Most images, font software, and software are protected by copyright. Do you know what the procedures are for obtaining graphics from online and using them in desktop publishing?
Images and software on CompuServe can only be uploaded by the copyright holder or with the permission of the owner. The copyright holder is also the only person who can authorize the use of their images or software. If the image is of a licensed character, the uploader must have an agreement with the agency that licenses the character or trademarked image. If you are going to use clip-art in a public or private way, ensure that it is free of copyright to obtain permission to use it.
You can buy electronic clip art that can be used without copyright limitations. But this often carries a user agreement or has a waiver attached that outlines conditions and terms of use. The terms of the user agreement vary, but common points often include the inability of the purchaser to make unlimited copies, or to give the fonts away. You may not alter images or fonts that are copyrighted unless you have permission from the copyright holder. You may alter images that are public domain, for example using software like Illustrator or Freehand.
Additional information on copyright limitations, or questions about using copyrighted images and fonts can be answered in the forums. DTP Online and Go Graphics Support--Copyright and More section are great places to learn more about copyright issues as they apply to graphics.
