IP affects literally everyone.
Using someone's IP without the right to is theft, even if it is unintentional. IP theft affects jobs, investment and the quality of innovation. It discourages sharing.
1. Intellectual Property is property.
An invention, name or work of creative expression, like a song, can have value like any other property that an individual or business may own, such as a house or computer.
2. IP protections encourage sharing.
Copyrights, trademarks, patents and trade secrets provide value to owners and society. By establishing rules for ownership, they encourage businesses of all sizes and empower creators. IP rights advance both public and private interests by enabling incentives and protections.
3. IP infringement has consequences.
IP theft, deliberate of not, threatens consumer safety and jobs, and has been linked to criminal activity. Infringing IP rights is harmful to individuals, businesses and society.
4. Good IP behavior is learned.
Understanding is the foundation for good IP behavior. Both businesses and consumers are responsible for learning how to respect IP rights and distinguish IP right from wrong.
