Copyright arises automatically when an original work is fixed in a tangible medium of expression — no registration is required. The moment you write a document, compose a song, write software code, or create a design, copyright protection begins. This makes copyright one of the most accessible forms of intellectual property protection available. The scope of copyright protection covers a wide range of works: literary works (including software code), musical compositions, artistic works (paintings, photographs, sculptures), dramatic works, films, sound recordings, broadcasts, and typographical arrangements. Copyright protects the expression of ideas, not the ideas themselves — a critical distinction that means others can independently create similar works as long as they do not copy yours. Copyright duration varies by jurisdiction but is generally very long. In the US and EU, copyright typically lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years. For corporate works, the term is usually 70-95 years from publication. After copyright expires, the work enters the public domain and can be freely used by anyone.
Why It Matters
Copyright protects an enormous range of creative and business output, often without the creator realising it. Software code, technical documentation, marketing materials, product designs, training manuals, and databases can all be protected by copyright. Understanding copyright is essential for both protecting your own works and avoiding infringing others' rights.
How This Connects to IP Protection
While copyright is automatic, proving when a work was created and who created it can be challenging in disputes. immut solves this by creating blockchain-timestamped evidence of your original work at the moment of creation. This irrefutable proof of authorship and creation date is invaluable in copyright infringement cases where timing and originality are contested.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
You need to register copyright for it to exist: Copyright exists automatically upon creation in most countries under the Berne Convention. However, in the US, registration is required before you can file an infringement lawsuit and enables statutory damages and attorney's fees. Registration is recommended even where not legally required.
If something is online, it is free to use: Content published online is almost always protected by copyright. The absence of a copyright notice does not mean the work is in the public domain. Using someone else's copyrighted content without permission — even from social media — can constitute infringement.
Fair use means you can use anything for education: Fair use (US) or fair dealing (UK) provides limited exceptions for purposes like criticism, commentary, education, and research. However, these exceptions are narrower than most people assume. Each use must be evaluated on its merits, and educational use does not automatically qualify.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does copyright last?
In most jurisdictions, copyright lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years. For works made for hire or corporate authorship, the term is typically 70-95 years from publication or 120 years from creation, whichever is shorter. After this period, the work enters the public domain.
Do I need the copyright symbol to be protected?
No. Since the US joined the Berne Convention in 1989, the copyright symbol is no longer required for protection. However, using the symbol (followed by the year and copyright holder's name) is recommended as it puts the public on notice and can defeat a defence of innocent infringement.
Can I copyright software code?
Yes. Software source code is protected as a literary work under copyright law in most jurisdictions. This protects the specific expression of the code, but not the underlying algorithms, methods, or functional concepts. For broader protection of software functionality, patents may also be relevant.
Protect Your Intellectual Property Today
Whether you are navigating copyright or building a broader IP strategy, immut gives you instant blockchain-verified proof of your innovations — no lawyers, no delays.