Copyright
Why do we need Copyright?
- Copyright legislation is essential to protect the rights of creators and developers
- It prevents the unauthorised use, duplication, or distribution of software, known as software piracy
- It ensures developers are rewarded for their work, encouraging further innovation and development
Principles of Copyright in Computer Software
- Copyright law prohibits the unauthorised copying, distribution, or modification of software
- It also includes the End-User Licence Agreement (EULA), which outlines what the software can and cannot be used for
- Violations of these principles, such as software piracy, can lead to legal consequences
Preventing Software Copyright Violations
- Software producers use various methods to protect their copyright, such as Digital Rights Management (DRM)
- DRM involves technologies or systems that control the use, modification, and distribution of copyrighted works
- Other methods include product activation, where software requires a unique code to be fully operational
- Automatic updates can also serve as a form of copyright protection, as pirated software often can't receive these updates, making it less functional or secure over time
