What are the rules on uploading copyrighted images from popular shows, movies, etc?

[FoxyFullmoon]

I know I've seen people upload content to do with popular cartoons such as pokemon. What restrictions are there on distributing such content? 

[Abigail Longmeadow]

The rules are simple. Don't do it.

[Rolig Loon]

See http://wiki.secondlife.com/wiki/Linden_Lab_Official:Intellectual_Property

[Lindal Kidd]

Note that the restrictions are not Linden Lab's.  ALL original works in the USA are protected by US copyright laws.  These laws apply whether we are talking about Second Life, a Xerox machine, or sending copies of your favorite movies and music to your friends.

The basic principle of copyright is simple, although in practice things can become complex.  The creator of an original work owns the rights to that work, and can decide who can use that work and how.  The creator does not have to file for a copyright to have these rights, they are automatic.  However, creative professionals DO register their works with the Copyright Office, because it is considered a legal proof of who created something and when.

Whenever you make a copy of another person's creation without getting their permission, you are infringing their rights.  Period.

[PeterCanessa Oh]

Lindal's answer doesn't quite go far enough.

Infringing their rights is not the end of the story.  Anyone using a copyrighted image without permission is breaking the law.  This applies even if they aren't "distributing" the content but simply using it for themselves.