We get lots of legal questions but we’re not a law firm so it’s hard to give advice about certain issues. The most common question we get is about copyrighting a website.

What Is a Copyright?

Copyrighting your material is a way to protect it from being reproduced without your permission. If the work is original to you, then you qualify for a copyright. According to United States Copyright Law, as soon as you create the material (i.e. article, images) it becomes copyright protected.

So, Can I Copyright My Site?

Yes, well most of it. Any part of your site that is original work (meaning that you made it or you own the exclusive rights to it) can be copyrighted. Technically, your work is already copyrighted as seen below.

Do I Have to Register?

No. You only need to be registered in the event that you want to sue for copyright infringement. If you think this might happen, you need to contact the US Copyright Office so that you can register. As mentioned above, your original work is already protected.

What does it all mean?

Since your original work is already copyrighted, you can place copyright symbols, phrases like “All rights reserved” and things like “copyright 2012 yourwebsite.com or company”. You may use these even if you choose not to register. Copyright infringement is very common on the internet and most webmasters don’t even know that it’s happening to them. Using the above markings helps a lot to discourage potential violators. However; the ultimate protection is to get registered. Want to know more?

Legal Content Disclaimer: Beginnerwebs.com and its authors are not lawyers. We do not provide legal assistance or advice; only general information. It is wise that you speak with a lawyer when considering a serious legal matter.