Honor Copyright

If you’re thinking of using someone else’s work on a web page, you need to get permission first. It’s nearly as simple as that. The work subject to copyright laws could be a friend’s photo, an image you found on the web, a YouTube video, or even a sound clip.

How do you get permission? Just ask. Track down the copyright holder through the web or other means and make your case. If you’re unsure how to proceed, submit a tech request and the web team will help.

If you’re curious about copyright rules or intend to use a variety of assets on a website, read the article Copyright Law In 2020 Explained In One Page. It has several useful sections such as What Can Be Copyrighted and What Can’t Be, Things That Are Definitely Not Fair Use and Copyright FAQ. The author’s bottom line: Do not use someone else’s content without permission.

Resources

Copyright Law in 2020 Explained in One Page – Comprehensive copyright guide for content producers and consumers. Dispels myths about copyright and what website creators and editors think they can get away with.

Google Help: Find Free to Use Images – Explains how to filter for free use images in Google’s image search engine

Code of Best Practices in Fair Use for Online Video – Advice from American University’s Center for Media & Social Impact

SUNY Potsdam Copyright Policy – Quick read on copyright laws

Harvard University Copyright and Fair Use Page – Copyright procedures explained in Q&A format. One question: What should I be aware of when I create a website?

MCC Copyright Infringement Procedure – Steps for copyright holders to take when they believe that MCC has infringed on their copyright