What is the symbol for copyright?
The copyright symbol is the letter “C” with a circle around it: ©. The © symbol can be created on a Windows computer either by using the character map program or simultaneously holding the <num lock> <alt> and typing 0169.
Often word processing programs allow you to make a © by enclosing it in paragraphs, as in (C).
Interestingly enough, the symbol used to denote the copyright of a sound recording is simply the letter “P.” This is because copyright law refers to the physical objects that sound recordings are made onto (like CDs and vinyl records) by the old-fashioned term “phonorecord.”
Although, years ago, the law required a work to have a valid copyright notice printed on it to receive protection on published work, this is no longer the case. Adding the symbol or any other copyright notice is no longer necessary to receive protection. Now, you receive absolute protection as soon as you create your work. You don’t need to take any other action or go through the official registration process if you don’t want to. As soon as you produce any creative work that meets the minimal standards for copyright protection then you get protection.
If you would like more information about the legal significance of copyright notices as well as where and how often you should put notices in your work, feel free to contact New Media Rights via our contact form to find out whether you qualify for free or reduced fee legal services. We also offer competitive full fee legal services on a selective basis. For more information on the services we provide click here.
