Proper Usage of Copyright Notice

Features and Considerations:

• Visibility and Placement: The copyright notice should be placed in a location where it is easily noticeable to anyone who comes across the work, ensuring that the copyright claim is clear.
• Components of Notice: A standard copyright notice includes the copyright symbol, the year of first publication, and the copyright owner’s name.
• Year of Publication: The year indicated should be the year in which the copyrighted work was first published or made publicly available.
• Multiple Copyright Years: If a work has been modified or updated in subsequent years, a range of years (e.g., 1998-2024) may be used to indicate the span of original and revised content.
• Anonymous or Pseudonymous Works: If the author’s identity is not disclosed or is under a pseudonym, special rules may apply for displaying copyright notices.
• Works Made for Hire: When a work is made for hire, the employer or commissioning party is considered the copyright owner and should be named in the notice.
• If the copyright symbol © is not available, the word “Copyright” or the abbreviation “” can be used instead.

Examples:

1. Books and Publications: On the copyright page of a book, listing the copyright symbol, year of first publication, and the publisher’s name as the copyright holder.
2. Online Content: At the footer of a website or at the end of an online article, clearly marking the material with the copyright year and the website owner’s name.
3. Software: Within the software’s “About” or “Credits” section, including a copyright notice that covers the software’s code, user interface, and documentation.
4. Photographs and Art: On or near the image, or in an accompanying description or metadata, to assert copyright over visual works effectively.

Why This Matters:

Proper use of copyright notice is essential because it provides a clear indication of copyright ownership and warns against unauthorized use or distribution. It helps in establishing a legal basis for copyright claims and can significantly deter infringement, ensuring that creators receive the recognition and remuneration they deserve.

Call to Action:

1. Review Your Works: Regularly review your published works to ensure that all copyrighted material includes a proper copyright notice.
2. Update Copyright Notices: If you update or modify your work, make sure to adjust the copyright notice to reflect the current year and nature of the copyright claim.
3. Educate Your Team: If you work with others, educate them about the importance of copyright notices and ensure they understand how to apply them correctly.
4. Consult a Professional: When in doubt, consult with a copyright attorney or a professional to ensure your copyright notices are compliant and effective.

External Resources:

• Copyright Guide (CIPO): https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/canadian-intellectual-property-office/en/guide-copyright
• What is Copyright (USCO): https://www.copyright.gov/what-is-copyright/
• Copyright (WIPO): https://www.wipo.int/copyright/en/
• Creative Commons: https://creativecommons.org/

Advanced Topics:

• How Copyright works when we share things on Social Media.
• Legal implications of omitting copyright notice.
• Global Aspects of copyright notice requirements.