Pinterest policy update smooths out sticky spots

Social-sharing site Pinterest has tweaked its policies to deal with concerns over copyright infringement and to pave the way for an API launch, while reassuring members about how it will use their posts.

Pinterest has revised its terms to fend off copyright concerns and lay the groundwork for an upcoming API. Image credit: Jon Yeomans

"Our original terms stated that by posting content to Pinterest you grant Pinterest the right for us sell your content. Selling content was never our intention and we removed this from our updated terms," the company wrote in a blog post on Friday.

At the same time, it noted it has "updated [the] acceptable use policy, and we will not allow pins that explicitly encourage self-harm or self-abuse".

Pinterest made it easier for copyright owners to report infringement spotted on its site by opening a new reporting tool. The service also changed its terms and conditions to allow for a new API and new private pinboards in the future.

The changes affect the terms of service, acceptable use policy and privacy policy, and are set to take effect on 6 April for all users.

For more on this ZDNet UK-selected story, see Pinterest gets tough in policy update on ZDNet Australia.