Are computer programs protected by copyright?

Yes, computer programs are protected by copyright in Washington. Copyright law provides protection for any original works of authorship, including computer programs. A copyright is an exclusive right that protects the expression of ideas, such as computer programs, from being copied or distributed without permission. Under copyright law, an owner of the copyright in a computer program has the exclusive right to reproduce, modify, distribute and display copies of the work. This means that without permission from the copyright holder, it is illegal to copy a computer program, create copies of it, or even make a backup copy for yourself. Copyright law applies to all types of computer programs, including applications, games, and operating systems. These works can be protected under copyright law even if they are never published or made available to the public. The owner of the copyright in a computer program has exclusive rights over its use, including the right to license it to others. In Washington, a copyright owner may sue for copyright infringement if someone has violated their exclusive right. In addition, individuals may be subject to criminal penalties for an unlawful copy or distribution of a computer program. Copyright law provides protection to computer programs and those who create them.

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Are computer programs protected by copyright?

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