Even and especially in the 21st century, the topic of copyright is important - particularly with regard to the virtual use of legally protected data and works. The chapter starts with a seemingly banal example and shows the problematic nature of the topic. 

But what actually is intellectual property? It includes e.g. speeches, music, photography, illustrations, literary works and many more. The German Copyright Act gives creators the right to make their creations accessible for users without losing the original copyright. 

Today patents in Germany are protected for 20 years only. This is, because experience has shown, that patents encourage innovation and creativity and a limited period of protection supports new developments. 

This chapter deals with the historical classification of intellectual property protection. 

From cease and desist letter to court hearing – copyright infringement cases can be handled in different ways. All ways have in common that they do not hinge on profit but punish the violation of copyright. 

Counterfeiting of patented products causes damage to German companies in the tens of millions of Euros each year. The "counterfeiting industry" is particularly active in countries where governments do not prohibit the theft of protected goods. 

This chapter summarizes the correct procedure for copyright protection. You can find a document about this as a download.