|
(continued)
The federal copyright laws have rules governing the use of books, movies, records, and other works.
The United States Copyright Act protects original "works of authorship fixed in any tangible medium of expression." The owner of a copyright has the exclusive right to reproduce the work, to create derivative works, to distribute copies to the public, and to perform or display the work publicly. Any violation of a copyright owner's exclusive right constitutes an infringement. A person who infringes a copyright willfully and for commercial advantage is subject to criminal as well as civil prosecution. Every Cast Member and employee acting on behalf of the Company must honor all copyrights held by other companies.
There are circumstances, however, where it is proper to reproduce portions of copyrighted work for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching and research. This is called "fair use" and does not constitute copyright infringement. Since copyright infringement issues are often highly technical, Cast Members and employees should consult with the Corporate Legal Department whenever there is any question as to permissible use.
The federal trademark laws prohibit the use of another company's trademarks.
Trademarks are symbols (including words) companies use to identify their goods or services. For instance, DISNEYLAND is a registered trademark of the Company. Under United States law, a federally registered trademark provides the registrant with nationwide protection against another's use. Any use of another party's trademark that gives rise to a likelihood of confusion as to the source or sponsorship of a product or service constitutes "trademark infringement" and violates the law. It is also impermissible to duplicate the packaging of a rival firm in a way that deceives or is likely to confuse the public. Every Cast Member and employee acting on behalf of the Company must honor all trademarks held by others.
The federal patent laws prohibit the unauthorized use of patented inventions.
The United States patent laws protect inventions for new and useful processes, machines, and compositions of matter. The owner of a United States patent has the exclusive right to make, use and sell the patented invention. Any violation of a patent owner's exclusive right constitutes an infringement. Every Cast Member and employee acting on behalf of the Company must honor all patents held by others.
Cast Members and employees should assist the Company in protecting its copyrights, patents and trademarks.
The Company has an extensive and valuable collection of copyrights, patents and trademarks. Substantial effort and money is expended to protect this valuable property from infringement. Any Cast Member or employee who knows or suspects that someone has infringed a copyright, patent or a trademark of the Company should advise the Corporate Legal Department.
|
