Legal Question in Technology Law in Vermont

Re: Are products and prices copyright-able?

There are a few cases that deal with so-called "deep linking" to commercial sites. The narrow answer to your question is that prices and names are not the subject of copyright -- facts are not copyrightable. Names are the province of trademark law, not copyright. Without knowing your purpose for your inquiry, it is difficult to guess what more I can tell you.

Best wishes,

LDWG

Re: Are products and prices copyright-able?

As Att. Graves said, facts are not copyrightable. There are cases pending involving a number of "intrusions" and "takings" on internet material/web sites/methodology. If the major portals had their way, all deep linking and searches would be banned (unless pre-licensed) therby emasculating the power of an internet search. The big battle over who will be the gate keepers and control aspects of the internet is yet to be fought. It weill take a concerted effort on the part of the "little people" to stave off multi-national corporate hegemony.

By the way, what is your issue? Do you run an auction site, or web sales site that is being 'tapped' repeatedly for data? What is your fact situation?