Though it’s most often associated with term papers, the old concept of plagiarism applies to the much more serious crimes against intellectual property rights. As you plan to build, or rebuild, your Web site, you must make certain that every aspect of it is either your own or properly documented as someone else’s.
 
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is dedicated to addressing issues of intellectual property rights on an international scale. Below, are some of their tips on how you can protect your business from violating global intellectual property rights.  

• Does your company own its Web site design, content, and “every aspect of [intellectual property] in it”? When working with a Web site development company, or other third party, be certain you understand what you own and what you have rights to use.
• When using databases, e-commerce systems, and other internet tools on your site, make sure your company is licensed, or has written permission, to use them.
• Do not display any logo, trademark, images or video from another site without prior written permission.
• Do not circulate content on your Web site from another site without the express written permission to do so.
• Do not use large portions of another Web site in a way that looks like it’s your own without written permission.

What does this all really mean to you? Don’t “borrow” another’s ideas, content, design, or images, unless you have permission from the proper owner. For the parts of your Web site that didn’t originate with you or your company (stock photographs, video, software, etc.) that permission should be in written form. 

Why should you care? Because intellectual property theft – or even the perception of it – could potentially cost you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, to resolve.
 
How do you protect your own company from intellectual property theft? Visit the WIPO Web site at: www.wipo.int to find out what you can do.
 
To read the article referenced above: “IP Issues When You Design and Build Your Web Site” click here.