Bands, performers, writers, and publishers usually own the copyright to live performances, so they have the right to determine when and how performances can be reproduced. Unless the reproduction of a concert or performance is authorized by the copyright owner, its agent or the law, it's considered an unauthorized or "bootleg" copy. Selling unauthorized copies is against the law and not allowed on eBay.
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.
What are the guidelines?
Not allowed
Bootleg recordings are not allowed on eBay. Here are some examples:
- An audience recording of Bob Dylan's 1979 concert in Philadelphia that was purchased from a street vendor who was not authorized to make this recording by Bob Dylan, his agent, or the law.
- Bootleg recordings made while traveling around the world with the Grateful Dead.
For more information, see the Digital Millennium Copyright Act - opens in new window or tab
Why does eBay have this policy?
eBay urges its sellers and buyers to comply with all governmental laws and regulations. It's illegal to sell bootleg recordings. This is why we don't allow these items on eBay. This policy also helps protect buyers from purchasing illegal merchandise and helps intellectual property rights owners protect their rights.