Copyright infringement can be direct, contributory, and vicarious. You should be familiar with each of them to protect your creative rights. Let’s dive into it.
When someone uses your copyrighted materials directly without your permission, it leads to direct infringement. It involves copying, distributing, or performing your work without your consent.
When faced with direct infringement, you should document it, send a cease-and-desist letter to the infringer, and seek help from a copyright infringement lawyer. You may need to file a lawsuit if needed.
You might be faced with this situation when someone knowingly helps others infringe on your copyright even though they didn’t do it themselves. For instance, if someone hosts a website for downloading pirated content, it’s considered contributory infringement.
If you suspect someone of contributory infringement, act swiftly. Gather evidence and issue cease-and-desist notices to the infringers. If case all else fails, consult a copyright infringement lawyer to file a lawsuit.
Vicarious copyright infringement happens when someone benefits from your copyrighted materials without being aware of it. It focuses on the infringer's ability to stop the infringement or profit from it.
While the process remains more or less the same, you might have to file a lawsuit to stop vicarious copyright infringement. It’s often difficult to identify and hold the infringers accountable without legal help.
Contrary to popular belief, copyright infringement is tricky waters. It’s best to hire a reputed copyright infringement lawyer like ETBLaw to protect your rights as a creator.