there is a possibility the watermark was edited out, theres now programs available as apps on google that'll rip watermarks off automatically now This is where editing metadata in all images is handy
Hi everyone,
I just ran into my first case of fraud by a DA user (mantrra). I must admit I wasn't careful and bought an "adopt" from this person just to find out there is a likelihood it was stolen. The DA user only has 5 submitted works and all have different styles with all of them being adopts. 4 of the 5 have already been sold. The one that hasn't sold, was flagged on DA for being stolen. Can anyone identify who owns any of the remaining 4 (3! ...see updates)
**To see updates with actual proof of the original artist, please click the spoiler tag. **
(I didn't want to clutter the top post with too many images)
**Updates for each image will follow the numbering scheme of the image showing all stolen art**
1. Unidentified
2. Unidentified
3. Unidentified
4. Thank you to pegasys ! We were able to identify the artist (Olenloh01 on twitter) showcasing the art here: https://vk.com/wall-168034081_1425. Google translated from VK: 
It appears the art was never intended to be sold during its initial appearance. It could be the artists OC, but it isn't mentioned in this post. It looks like the image was used as an example for an art raffle.
Using the artist's twitter handle, I was able to send them a message. It seems like the artist had no idea that their art was taken. I used google translate to communicate but essentially I informed them that their stolen art was being sold on DeviantArt. From Google translate, the artist seemed grateful to be told and found it terrible that it had happened to them.
5. This is the one that has been flagged already. It was stolen from Onigrisama on YCH.commishes. Thank you to CatalystAristarkh for providing a backup link! The original comment shown below was deleted. Link to the art: https://ych.commishes.com/auction/show/6R4F/adopt/
The merman (3) is the one I was scammed with. He's a true beauty and it's a shame that I have no authorization to use it.
Extra: Thank you to everyone who lent a helping hand in any way. ^^