Copyright
Definition
An automatic legal right that protects original creative works including text, images, videos, music, and software code from being copied or reproduced without permission.
Why it matters
Copyright protection is automatic in most countries, but registering it strengthens your legal position. For founders, understanding copyright matters in two directions: protecting your content and avoiding inadvertently using others' copyrighted material.
Example
A founder uses a stock image without the correct licence on her product page. The image agency sends a copyright infringement notice demanding £800 in fees. Proper licensing would have cost £15. Understanding copyright prevents expensive mistakes.
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