Copyright is a set of exclusive rights granted by law to creators of original works, such as writings, works of art, music, films, or software. This right allows the author to control the use of their work, particularly in terms of reproduction, distribution, public communication, and modification. The main purpose is to protect the author’s creative expression and ensure that they can benefit from their work, either economically or morally.
Copyright arises as soon as the work is created and does not require registration, although in some countries registration may offer additional protection or facilitate the resolution of disputes. The term of protection varies by jurisdiction but generally lasts for the author’s lifetime plus a certain number of years after their death (often 50 or 70 years).
It is important to note that copyright protects the expression of an idea, but not the idea itself. For example, it protects the text of a book, but not its concept or subject matter.
Copyright infringements can result in civil and, in some cases, criminal proceedings against third parties who use the work without the author’s permission.
Exceptions to copyright include uses deemed fair, such as criticism, commentary (freedom of expression), research, teaching, or information. These exceptions vary depending on the country and specific context.