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Copyrighting an ebook

by elliec
4 replies
I have searched the forum for this and only found threads going back a few years. Simply put...should I copyright my ebook. It is original content, nothing earthshattering, a guide to investing in a food franchise by an expert. Copyright is only $35 - should I? Do you? Thanks folks
#copyrighting #ebook
  • Profile picture of the author kindsvater
    Your ebook is automatically copyrighted as soon as you create it.

    You are referring to registering your copyright with the US copyright office.

    If you find someone stealing your ebook, selling it from their website, etc., and are willing to sue them for copyright infringement - then by all means register.

    If not, save your money.

    Registration gives you additional legal remedies for infringement claims. But if you would not pursue the remedies, or threaten legal action, then you need to consider why you want to register.

    .
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  • Profile picture of the author Michael Oksa
    Originally Posted by elliec View Post

    I have searched the forum for this and only found threads going back a few years. Simply put...should I copyright my ebook. It is original content, nothing earthshattering, a guide to investing in a food franchise by an expert. Copyright is only $35 - should I? Do you? Thanks folks
    First, let me say that I AM NOT A LAWYER, and the following is based on my understanding, and personal experience.

    The copyright exists from the moment the work is put onto fixed form. As soon as it's written or recorded, it's copyrighted. However, you have much more legal protection (such as suing for damages) if you register the copyright.

    That being said, my opinion is that you should take the time to copyright your book. The reason is that it's an excellent experience to go through the copyrighting process. I have done it for songs and my most recent book.

    It's only $35, and that's a deal; especially if you have to enforce the copyright down the road.

    There is also an intangible benefit: you will feel more like a "real" author when you have an actual copyright on your material.

    Again, I am not a lawyer, but that's my take on things.

    All the best,
    Michael

    EDIT: Brian posted while I was writing this, but it looks like I have the basic idea.
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    • Profile picture of the author elliec
      Thanks everyone. Michael you make a very good point about feeling like a "real" author! And for the cost it is another step towards legitimizing oneself. I'll go ahead an copyright!
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  • Profile picture of the author Jonathan Smith
    I copyright everything I write. I am a big fan of writing and love to write articles etc. I do it quite a bit. I would copyright if you are offering as a download to buyers. That will definately protect you. Also, I take the few seconds to add a right click NO NO to my stuff. I do not want someone steeling my content. If you buy a pdf from me it is right click proof which does aide in protecting my work.

    If you want I can help you out with that FREE OF CHARGE of course. Send me the book, article etc and I will set her up in pdf for you and right click proof it. Right click proof is for lack of a better word. that is what I call it.
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