Voices from Affected Community Members on the Issue of Duplicate Image Replacement

A recent surge in duplicate image replacement has been reported in Prague, with multiple instances of identical images being used in different advertisements and media outlets across the city.

This issue matters now because it affects the way residents perceive and interact with local businesses and media. Duplicate image replacement can lead to a loss of trust and credibility in advertising, as well as a sense of disconnection from the community. As Prague continues to grow and develop, it is essential to address this issue and ensure that local media and advertising accurately represent the city and its residents.

In Prague, the issue of duplicate image replacement is particularly noticeable in popular areas such as Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, where advertisements and billboards are abundant. Local organisations, such as the Prague Chamber of Commerce and the City of Prague's Department of Culture, have been working to address the issue and promote more authentic and unique representations of the city. For example, the Prague City Tourism agency has launched a campaign to showcase local artists and photographers, providing them with opportunities to showcase their work in advertisements and media outlets.

According to data from the Czech Advertising Council, the number of reported instances of duplicate image replacement in Prague has increased by 25% in the past year, with an average of 15 cases per month. The council has also reported that the majority of these instances involve images of popular tourist destinations, such as Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, which are often used without permission or proper attribution. As of June 2026, the council has received 120 complaints regarding duplicate image replacement, with 70% of these complaints coming from local residents and businesses.

Community Response and Next Steps

So what happens next? The City of Prague's Department of Culture has announced plans to launch a new initiative aimed at promoting authentic and unique representations of the city in advertising and media. The initiative, which is set to launch in September 2026, will provide local artists and photographers with training and resources to help them create high-quality, original images that showcase the city's unique character. In the meantime, residents and businesses can report instances of duplicate image replacement to the Czech Advertising Council, which will investigate and take action to address the issue. By working together, the community can help to promote a more authentic and unique representation of Prague in advertising and media.