Are databases protected by copyright law?

Yes, databases are protected by copyright law in Florida. A database is classified as a form of literary work, as defined by the US Copyright Office. This includes any collection of computer-readable information, no matter how organized or structured. A database can be a compilation of names, addresses, phone numbers, or other information compiled into a list or tables. In Florida, copyright is the exclusive right to reproduce and distribute the work in any form. It also allows the author to claim credit for their original work. Additionally, it gives the author the exclusive right to control how the material is used. When a database is copyrighted, it is protected from any unauthorized duplication, distribution, or sale. Database creators should apply for a copyright to protect their work so that anyone who wants to use it must ask for permission from the original author. Not all databases are automatically covered by copyright law. To be protected, the database must be original and have creative elements beyond just compiling facts. A copyright must be registered to receive the benefits. Without a copyright, the database may still be protected by other laws, like trade secret rights.

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Are databases protected by copyright law?

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