QandAs: Legal

How Do I Copyright my Web Content?

Answer:
A copyright protects original works

of authorship, whether works are published or not. A copyright protects literary and artistic works – from novels to computer software. However, a copyright does not protect ideas or facts.

Legally, your web content is copyrighted as soon as you write it. Even though it isn’t necessary, you can place a copyright notice (or symbol) on your website. You can also register your writing or photography with the Copyright Office. Doing this might be beneficial if there is ever a lawsuit.

In order to register your copyright, you’ll need to complete an application and pay a fee. Your registration will become effective on the day the Copyright Office receives your package. You should receive a certification of registration approximately four months after you send in your information.

Currently, the Copyright Office is offering a beta test of its web-based registration system at a reduced fee.


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