The IPO has published a useful little note “How do I protect copyright?” The announcement on the “What’s New” page suggests that it is an update on the protection of websites but the note applies more generally.
The first point to note is that copyright does not have to be registered in the UK. There are a number of private copyright registration services but it is unlikely that they add anything more than the age old practices of posting a sealed copy of the work to yourself or depositing it with a solicitor or bank. The note emphasizes that that does not prove that a work is original or created by you but will help show that the work was in your possession at a particular date.
The second suggestion, which I endorse, is to insert the word “copyright” or “(c)” symbol followed by the name of the owner and the year of creation. Again, that is not essential in this country but it will put folk on notice that copyright is claimed in the work and that you believe the work belongs to you.
If you would like to discuss copyright protection, give me a ring on 0800 862 0055 or send me a message through my contact form.
NIPC Law 