Downloading is only the first step
Public access and permission to reuse are different. Understand attribution, license conditions and the source information shown by Etmap.
Etmap editorial · Updated 4 October 2026
Publicly visible is not public domain
A file can be visible on the web and still be protected by copyright. Downloading a file does not transfer its copyright. Before publishing, modifying or distributing it, inspect the license on the original source page.
Read the specific license
Creative Commons licenses carry different conditions. Attribution is required by CC BY, while CC BY-SA also requires adaptations to use the relevant share-alike terms. Other licenses may restrict commercial use or adaptations. Consult the linked license for the exact conditions rather than relying on a shortened label.
Save attribution with the file
For Wikimedia Commons files, Etmap displays the license name and available artist attribution supplied by the source. Keep the source URL, creator credit and license link with your project. Metadata may be incomplete, so inspect the source page before reuse.
Archive items need a declared license
The Archive tool accepts items that declare a supported Creative Commons or public-domain license URL. An item appearing on Internet Archive alone is not proof that it may be reused. Etmap does not independently adjudicate ownership.
Other rights can still apply
A copyright license may not settle trademark, privacy or publicity issues. The presence of a recognizable person, logo or protected design can raise additional questions. For a consequential use, check the source notices and obtain appropriate advice.
Official references
Read the license definitions at creativecommons.org and the licensing information on commons.wikimedia.org. Those source pages are the authority for their stated terms. Etmap’s guide is a practical introduction rather than a legal determination.
Sources: Instagram Help · Creative Commons licenses · Apple’s file download guide