Authors Cry Foul Over AI Settlement Payouts

Authors have reported surprising emails regarding their share of Anthropic's $1.5 billion copyright settlement, with allegations of publishers claiming more than their entitled portions. The settlement, which allows payments of $3,000 per pirated work, has faced issues where publishers are reportedly seeking full payments for books whose rights had reverted years ago or claiming 100% when only due 50%.

While some attribute these discrepancies to poor record-keeping and a complex settlement process, the sheer volume of complaints suggests a more widespread issue. Concerns have also been raised about literary agencies making claims on settlement funds, despite not being rights holders. Authors can dispute these allocations, particularly if rights reversion occurred before the settlement's August 10, 2022 download date.