Learn About Copyright: Intellectual Property

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Intellectual property is an umbrella term. It refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary/artistic works, designs, and symbols, names, and images used in commerce. Intellectual property is protected by law. The three most widely known intellectual property protections are copyright, patents, and trademarks. Each protects a specific type of intellectual property:

• Copyright protects original works of authorship.
• Patents protect inventions or discoveries.
• Trademarks protect words, phrases, symbols, or designs identifying the source of the goods or services of one party and distinguishing them from those of others.

Learn more about intellectual property using the websites linked below.

Test your knowledge of intellectual property with this quiz from the World Intellectual Property Organization.