are web sites and blogs copywritten?

[Steven Stone]

I am currently putting together my own devotional thoughts for our web site for people to read. Is there an automatic copyright that goes with those? or do I still have to submit these writings for copyright protection. Not that anyone would want to copy my stuff, but does anyone know any "legalities" concerning that? I have the same question about Blogs as well.

[Billy Cox]

I am currently putting together my own devotional thoughts for our web site for people to read. Is there an automatic copyright that goes with those? or do I still have to submit these writings for copyright protection. Not that anyone would want to copy my stuff, but does anyone know any "legalities" concerning that? I have the same question about Blogs as well.

No. There is no such thing as 'automatic copyright'.

[Steven Stone]

Thanks, I didn't think so, but thought I would ask.

[Mark Metcalfe]

Actually, I believe that copyright is implied, but it is always better
to have it explicitly stated, in case you ever need to contest your
work legally. All you need to do to copyright your material is simply
to type the words: Copyright 2006.

Mark

[Michael B. Ross]

Steven, the issue of copyright is not always clear. As I understand it, copyrights are somewhat presumed on original material. If you are stating what is in the public domain, a copyright is not applicable. For instance, a statement that "God is good, and he cares for his own," cannot be copyrighted.

If you design an essay that is unique, then it is copyrighted. You would be wise, however, to put a copyright notice on your pages. Material can be copyrighted officially, but that is not necessary. Nothing has to be submitted. Your stating it is enough.

Now, maybe one of our lawyers can clarify or correct, but that is how I understand it.

I am currently putting together my own devotional thoughts for our web site for people to read. Is there an automatic copyright that goes with those? or do I still have to submit these writings for copyright protection. Not that anyone would want to copy my stuff, but does anyone know any "legalities" concerning that? I have the same question about Blogs as well.

[Cindi Hammons]

Steve,

I'm not sure about written material, but I do know that photos are implicitly copyrighted. They are artistic property. Some photographers mark the back of their photos with a copyright logo or a translucsent symbol (online) on the front of the photo. There is no legal procedure to do so, or photographers would spend all their time copyrighting each image.

I would think that written material, being intellectual property, would be the same. If you don't want your material copied...SAY SO below your entry. Let God sort out the cheaters! Ha! :eek:

Cindi H.