【Intellectual Property Rights Awareness】Using Images or Music? Check the License Before Sharing

Classroom presentations, social media posts, and event posters often use photos, illustrations, music, videos, or fonts. The fact that materials can be downloaded does not mean they may be freely reproduced, adapted, or publicly shared. Before using them, you should first confirm the scope of the license.

I. Citing the Source Does Not Mean You Have Obtained Permission

Educational or non-commercial use does not automatically mean that the materials may be used. Before use, you should still confirm the purposes permitted by the license, whether adaptations are allowed, and whether there are requirements for source attribution.

II. Before Sharing, Do These Three Things First

• Check the License Terms

         Confirm whether reproduction, adaptation, and public sharing are permitted.

• Ask the Rights Holder

         If the license terms are unclear or do not apply, obtain permission before use.

• Keep Records of Use

         Retain records of the source of materials, licensing pages, and permissions granted by rights holders.

III. Recent Copyright Case

TVBS News reported on September 9, 2026, that two performance videos were reproduced and uploaded to YouTube and Bilibili. Two individuals were indicted for allegedly using the content without authorization. An indictment does not mean a person is guilty, and the case is still pending court proceedings.

✧ For more information on intellectual property rights, please refer to the Intellectual Property Rights section of the Office of Library and Information Services