Copyright infringement
Since we've been discussing blogs a lot recently, it's probably
a good idea to dispel many of the myths regarding copyright and
copyright infringement. Because of these myths, many bloggers
have accidentally (and sometimes intentionally) put themselves
or their company in violation of copyright laws. This should
help you avoid ending up in that situation.
Myth 1: I can use anything that doesn't have a copyright notice
-- That is incorrect. Anything from writing, to art to music is
protected upon creation and the creator does not have to file
for copyright protection, or even put a notice up.
Myth 2: Since it's online, it's public domain and I can use it
-- That is incorrect also. The internet is just another medium,
like television or radio, for people to transmit their message.
Content on the internet is protected just the same as anywhere
else.
Myth 3: I can use anything as long as I'm not profiting from it
-- Regardless of how you intend to use something that someone
else created, you still need their express written consent.
Besides, profit is a matter of perception. You may not be making
any money from it, but you may be using it to promote an idea or
belief which would be considered a benefit to you.
Myth 4: I can use anything as long as I give credit to the
original creator or include the original creator's copyright
notice -- Same as above.
Myth 5: I can use anything as long as I take it down when the
copyright holder objects -- While you can try, we certainly
don't advise it. You may get away with it in some cases but it
is more likely that you will face hefty fines enforced by the
court and be ordered to cease using it.
Someone worked hard to develop their content, whether it is
writing, art, music or something else, and it's not fair to them
for you to use it with out their permission. Think of how you
would feel as a clothing retailer if someone came into your
store, took your inventory and then sold it or even gave it away
-- would you think it was ok as long as they told everyone where
it came from or if they didn't make any money?