How to Copyright eCommerce Website to Avoid Cyber Crime?
“How to Copyright an eCommerce Website to Avoid Cyber Crime”
1. Understanding Copyright for eCommerce Websites
Copyright protects original works of authorship, including text, graphics, images, videos, code, and the overall design of your website. For an eCommerce website, copyright typically covers:
Website content (product descriptions, blogs, articles)
Images and graphics
Website design and layout (UI/UX)
Source code and scripts
By copyrighting your website, you legally prevent others from copying, reproducing, or using your content without permission.
2. Steps to Copyright Your eCommerce Website
Document Original Work
Keep records of when content, images, graphics, and code were created. This can be screenshots, design files, or source code logs.
Register with Copyright Office
In India, you can register your website with the Copyright Office (under the Copyright Act, 1957). Registration is not mandatory, but it gives strong legal evidence in court.
Add Copyright Notice
Include a visible notice on your website, e.g.,
© 2025 YourCompanyName. All rights reserved.
Terms of Use & Privacy Policy
Clearly state that unauthorized use of your website’s content is prohibited. Include legal remedies for violations.
Monitor Online Infringement
Use tools like Google Alerts or services to check if your content or images are copied elsewhere.
Cyber Crime Awareness
Protect against hacking and phishing by implementing:
SSL certificates (HTTPS)
Secure payment gateways
Strong passwords & two-factor authentication
3. Case Illustration
Case: Yahoo! Inc. vs. Akash Arora (1999, Delhi High Court)
Facts:
Akash Arora ran a website using content and layout similar to Yahoo!’s website. Yahoo! sued him for copyright infringement.
Judgment:
The Delhi High Court held that copying the look-and-feel and content of a website without permission constitutes copyright infringement, even if the infringer does not profit directly.
Takeaway for eCommerce Websites:
Protecting your website content and layout through copyright registration is crucial.
Unauthorized copying or hacking of your eCommerce website is punishable under copyright law and IT Act provisions.
4. Legal Framework
Copyright Act, 1957 – Protects original content, graphics, and code.
Information Technology Act, 2000 – Protects against hacking, phishing, and cyber crimes.
✅ Summary:
To avoid cyber crime on your eCommerce website:
Register copyright for all content and design.
Include copyright notices and terms of use.
Secure your website technically (SSL, firewalls).
Monitor for infringements online.
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