I have attempted to replace the default.jpg image with our own default avatar image via ftp only to have it say I don't have permission. Is there a way to change the default avatar?
When you install a component/plugin/modules the system write with permission on webserver (usually user www) no ftp user, you must change a permission from the control panel of your provider.
The solution:
Easy Profile allow you to set a default value of avatar image:
- go to Components->Easy Profile->choose "Avatar" field
- go to "Options Image Field" tab and set a default image