how to copyright programs?

[Konimimaru]

I have been writing allot of neat programs in my spare time lately like acounting, point of sales, client data base programs and lots more. But I reallized some of the guys (with shops) I write them for have been copying and selling them for a major profit and its putting me out of bussiness in the long run, I lost 5 potential clients already. I charge low rates like $300 - $1400 for an entire program depending on the size of the program and client specs but this guy goes charges the same price and re-sells it 5 times. How do I copyright my programs?

[blueangel06661]

You'll need to register your programs and then have enough money to hire an intellectual property specialized lawyer and sue.

http://copyright.gov/

Without it registered you can file for a DMCA takedown but.... Without it registered it can go either way and you can't really sue over it.

[Kaitou Ace]

Well it's technically copyrighted to you the moment you write it. Are you writing it on an hourly basis as a consultant for these companies? Or are you selling them the completed program?

If you're selling a program, and it's a custom one, look into a registration system, and make sure that whatever contract you have with them includes that they aren't allowed to sell or copy them out. In general though, you may want to consult with a lawyer about the current situation, as you might still have some sort of recourse (was re-sale discussed? was there a reason for them to assume they could do so or that it was theirs now?). And of course never leave your source code unless they are really paying you enough for it.

[Astral_Mage]

Don't forget to add disclaimer/credits to your program stating you as the programmer & whatever the standard blah blah you usually found in the about help>about tab in most programs

[Jakiao]

The moment you write an original piece of work the copyright is yours. No money or attorneys necessary. Just make sure to note it!

Have you noticed other programs? Go check out their EULAs, which is essentially their copyright. There's a lot of standard types of copyrights on there that you can use, or you can make up your own.

Either way, if your work is being used without your permission, you can sue for royalties. But you need to have an airtight case and be sure you know what you're doing.