This module is a resource for lecturers

Introduction

The Internet and Internet-enabled digital devices are force multipliers for intellectual property crime because they enable intellectual property to be uploaded, copied, downloaded, and shared instantly worldwide. International and regional cooperation on intellectual property crime and protection matters are critical. This cooperation can (and has) involve implementing national, regional, and international property laws, and developing national capacity to protect intellectual property and to prevent intellectual property crime online and offline. Ultimately, intellectual property crime denies creators and innovators and those who make intellectual property available their economic returns on their creations, innovations, unique identifiers, and/or undisclosed information.

This Module examines intellectual property and its cyber-enabled unauthorized access, distribution, and use. Specifically, this Module examines what intellectual property is, types of intellectual property, the causes, reasons, and perceived justifications for cyber-enabled copyright and trademark offences, and protective and preventive measures against such offence.

Learning Outcomes

  • Discuss intellectual property and the importance of its protection
  • Differentiate between various forms of intellectual property
  • Critically evaluate national, regional, and international laws and treaties relating to intellectual property protection
  • Identify and discuss various criminological, sociological, psychological, and economic theories and critically assess their applicability to cyber-enabled copyright and trademark offences
  • Critically evaluate national, regional, and international intellectual property protection and prevention efforts
Next: Key issues
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