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  Copyright Basics:  When does a work become copyrighted?
 

A work becomes copyrighted when it is fixed* in a tangible medium of expression. After March 1, 1989 works no longer require a copyright notice (© or the word copyright, the author´s name and the year of publication). Copyright registration is also no longer required. However, it is wise to affix a copyright notice to works so that the owner of the copyright can be easily identified.

 

Definitions

Fixed - A work is "Fixed" in a tangible medium of expression when its embodiment in a copy or phonorecord, by or under the authority of the author, is sufficiently permanent or stable to permit it to be perceived, reproduced, or otherwise communicated for a period of more than transitory duration.

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The mission of the University Copyright Office is to educate the Purdue University community on copyright.
The information contained on the UCO site should not be considered legal advice.
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