Intellectual property is typically thought of as the ideas, plans, data, information, and other non-physical-based property of a person or company. This property is sometimes harder to specifically address or explain, because it is not tangible in the way a car or a house is tangible.
Unfortunately, that also leads to intellectual property not being taken seriously, being devalued, and being “borrowed” by people who have no right to it. Technology has made it easier for people to access intellectual property, but there are many ways to use technology for protection of that property, as well. Here is what to consider when intellectual property meets technology.
What is Intellectual Property in Technology, and Why is It Important?
Intellectual property in technology involves the copyrights, trademarks, patents, and other non-physical property that exists in the technological realm. In other words, it is the intellectual property that is found on the internet, in the cloud, and on technological devices.
It is important because it needs proper protection, especially from people who misunderstand that is free for them to use and what they must ask permission before using. Pictures are one of the biggest issues for online theft, but there are plenty of writings and ideas that are reposted without permission from the author or any cred to that person, as well.
What is Intellectual Property and Technology Law?
The law surrounding intellectual property and technology has had to change and adapt rapidly, because original intellectual property laws were not set up for the changes that technology brought with it. Protecting the copyright of an author of a print book or a photographer in a magazine is not the same as protecting people who have ideas and information online.
The access points for online information are much more numerous, and there is a lack of understanding when it comes to what can be used and how it can be used. The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) has helped writers, photographers, and others protect their intellectual property.
Through take-down notices and options for legal action, intellectual property and technology law continues to grow. While it may not be realistic to stop people from trying to steal intellectual property through technological means, it has become much easier to fight back against those who would make use of the intellectual property of others without permission or compensation.
How Does Intellectual Property and Its Rights Affect Innovation?
Innovation is also affected by intellectual property rights. Innovators need to be able to protect their intellectual property, so it is not used by competitors or sold to the highest bidder. By making sure intellectual property is protected, companies can create new products and services without fear that something they have developed will be stolen from them.
It is easier than ever to legally protect intellectual property, because companies and individuals can apply for patents, trademarks, copyrights, and other legal protections online. That keeps wait times shorter, and allows for nearly immediate protection rather than being forced to wait for postal mailing, processing, and related factors.
Do You Need Help With Intellectual Property and Technology Law?
Technology has affected how intellectual property is accessed and used, but that does not mean it can just be borrowed or otherwise acquired by anyone for any reason.
If you have questions about intellectual property and technology law, or you need to fight back against a company or individual who is taking your intellectual property without permission, contact us today at Lanak & Hanna. We can provide the help and support you need, in order to protect and recover your intellectual property.
Pursu Agency