Basic Framework on Copyright

Internet allows fast and easy access to numerous online resources. Those resources are very often free to browse and print (but seldom for copying for sale). But it must be aware that despite its openness and ease of use, content posted on the Internet are protected by copyrights, subject to the satisfaction of certain requisite elements such as originality, being a copyright work under the relevant legislation (Copyright Ordinance 版權條例), being an expression (not an idea).

There are debates surrounding the use of the Internet as a place for upload and download of digitized pictures, musical works and game programs. The MP3.COM, Napster and Gnuttella are great examples on this area of debate.

Another interesting area is the use of linking on web-pages. There are several distinctive forms of linking: hyperlinking, deep-linking and framing. Hyperlinking is a form causing the least controversy. Deep-linking and framing can often lead to litigations.

Other aspects of laws are very information in view of the rising importance and value of intellectual capital. That includes confidential information, trade secrets, copyrights etc which all can find protection under the laws.