Copyrighted

Copyrighted refers to a work that is protected by copyright law. A copyrighted work is an original piece of authorship fixed in a tangible form, such as a book, song, film, software, or photograph. In most jurisdictions copyright arises automatically at creation, with no required registration, though some places offer registration or deposit benefits for enforcement and proof of ownership.

The copyright holder has exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, perform, display, and adapt the work, and to authorize others to do so. These rights are subject to exceptions and limitations, and they can be licensed, transferred, or exhausted through use.

Duration of copyright varies by country but typically lasts for the life of the author plus several decades, or for corporate or anonymous works a fixed term from publication. After expiration, works may enter the public domain, becoming free to use without permission. Infringement occurs when a protected work is used beyond permitted purposes without the owner’s consent; remedies can include injunctions, damages, or other enforcement measures.

Public domain and licensing are key concepts. Works enter the public domain when rights expire or are relinquished. Many creators use licenses that specify allowed uses, such as Creative Commons licenses, which can permit certain types of reuse without direct permission.

Internationally, copyright protection is guided by agreements like the Berne Convention, which facilitate recognition of rights across member countries. Common misconceptions include confusing copyright with ideas or facts; copyright protects expression, not ideas themselves, and ownership generally exists with the creator or designated assignee.