When you search for images, media, or assets on platforms like Google Images, the term “not filtered by license” appears as the default setting under usage rights. Understanding what this phrase means—and what it implies for your content creation—is essential for avoiding copyright infringement.
What Does “Not Filtered by License” Mean?
In short, “not filtered by license” means your search results include everything matching your query, regardless of copyright restrictions.
When this setting is active, the search engine does not apply any algorithmic restrictions based on ownership or usage rights. Your results will display a chaotic mix of:
- Fully copyrighted media: Photos owned by stock agencies (Getty, Shutterstock), corporate brands, or independent creators who retain all legal rights.
- Creative Commons works: Images that can be reused under certain conditions (such as giving credit or avoiding commercial use).
- Public domain items: Works whose copyrights have expired or been waived, making them entirely free to use.
Because the platform shows all files found across the web, you cannot assume an image is safe to use just because it appeared in your search results.
The Hidden Risks of Using Unfiltered Content
Many creators mistakenly believe that if an image is publicly accessible on the internet, it is part of the public domain. Relying on an unfiltered search without checking individual source licenses introduces major risks:
- Copyright Infringement & Fines: Using a copyrighted photograph on a commercial website, blog post, or promotional flyer without permission can result in costly demand letters from copyright holders or automated stock photo audit firms.
- Takedown Notices: Platforms like YouTube, WordPress, or social media networks can automatically flag or remove your content if unauthorized media is detected.
- Unreliable Attribution: Even if a blog post claims an image is free, if it originated from a protected source, secondary re-posting does not grant you legal rights to use it.
When Is It Safe to Use “Not Filtered by License”?
While you should never publish, print, or commercialize assets directly from an unfiltered search without verification, the default unfiltered mode has valid use cases:
- Finding Original Sources: If you need to trace an image back to its original creator to purchase a commercial license or request explicit permission, starting with an unfiltered search is often necessary.
- Inspiration and Mood Boards: Gathering reference images for private mood boards, personal sketching, or design brainstorms typically falls under fair use or private review, provided the work is not shared publicly or monetized.
- Educational Research: Reviewing media for academic critique, commentary, or classroom presentations often enjoys broader protections, though proper citation remains vital.
Navigating Other License Filters
To protect yourself when searching for reusable media, engines usually provide alternative filter options:
| Filter Option | What It Allows | Best For |
| :— | :— | :— |
| Not Filtered by License | All images across the web (default) | Finding original sources, personal inspiration |
| Creative Commons Licenses | Free reuse with specific conditions (usually attribution) | Blogs, non-profit projects, open-source work |
| Commercial & Other Licenses | Reuse for business, marketing, or profit-driven projects | Commercial websites, ads, professional portfolios |
Always double-check the destination landing page of any image you plan to use to confirm its exact licensing terms before downloading or publishing.
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