NEED HELP! WTS accusing Dirtclod.com of copyright infringement

by Jourles 72 Replies latest jw friends

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  rem

  Jourles,
  

  I would just make sure to blur out a lot, save only a couple paragraphs or so so it really is fair use. I would actually keep the logo and header info, as that can be considered fair use to verify the document is genuine. Just like on TV, they only quote a couple sentences out of an entire blured document. You just need to get the really juicy bits. Unfortunately, that may be hard with these BOE letters because the WT writes so much stuff to hang themselves with. Also, put the text you are quoting below the scanned image or on the front page with the image as a thumbnail so people can read it in text without opening the graphic. The image would only be to confirm that the BOE letter is genuine.

  I know this is a lot of work, but you might want to put a synopsis of the letter on the site along with the quoted parts. This way people get a feel for what the document is talking about without infringing on copyright. It actually could be set up quite nicely and the WT wouldn't be able to do anything about it.

  rem
• 

  Sam Beli

  Isn’t it interesting that “God’s Organization” did not use the “scriptural approach” of going directly to Jourles with its complaint/concern? Apparently, it went to a source two (2) steps removed, namely to an “up stream provider” to register its complaint/threat.
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  Jourles

  Something else that I just remembered - Didn't Ray Franz photocopy entire letters from the WTS in his book, CoC? How did he get around that? Did he obtain permission from the Society to use those letters? haha But seriously, did the Society ever go after him for using those letters? Could someone possibly ask him how he accomplished that? That may help in knowing what legal reasons he had to publish them.
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  Jourles

  Sam -- "scriptural approach." I thought the same thing when that email rolled into my inbox. I thought, What the hell??
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  Satanus

  By the same token, the wt should refrain from using/publishing the biblical letters that paul wrote to 'elders' or friends. Supposedly he represented or was part of the first century coverning body. It's a very similar situation.

  SS
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  Francois

  In other words, copyright inheres in the work immediately it is finished, like this sentence for instance. You don't have to (and you never did have to) register anything with any copyright office in order for your claim to be authenticated.

  You could be on very thin ice. Watch your step.

  francois
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  VM44

  Here is the logo the WT is claiming copyright in order to censor the BOE letters

  BEHOLD! The IMAGE of the ORGANIZATION.

  --VM44
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  blondie

  By the same token, the wt should refrain from using/publishing the biblical letters that paul wrote to 'elders' or friends.

  SaintSatan, I think there is a time limit. Copyrights don't extend for thousands of years.

  How Long Does Copyright Protection Last?

  1. How long does a copyright last?
     The term of copyright for a particular work depends on several factors, including whether it has been published, and, if so, the date of first publication. As a general rule, for works created after Jan. 1, 1978, copyright protection lasts for the life of the author plus an additional 70 years. For an anonymous work, a pseudonymous work, or a work made for hire, the copyright endures for a term of 95 years from the year of its first publication or a term of 120 years from the year of its creation, whichever expires first. For works first published prior to 1978, the term will vary depending on several factors. To determine the length of copyright protection for a particular work, consult chapter 3 of the Copyright Act (title 17 of the United States Code). More information on the term of copyright can be found in Circular 15a, Duration of Copyright, and Circular 1, Copyright Basics.
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  Lady Lee

  VM44

  I don't think the WT logo is the image they are referring to in the inital complaint to the ISP. Each page of each letter has been converted to an image file. The letters themselves are the images and that is what breaks the copyright laws. The letters in any form belong to the WTS.

  Jourles

  The logos are needed because they are proof that the letters do indeed belong to the WTS so don't delete the logos. I think you are doing a smart thing - Keep the logo and blur most of the letter except the parts you want to highlight. Right on. Some great suggestions here

  Now that won't necessarily stop them but it won't give them much to base a suit on.

  By all means protect yourself while you are editing the letters. The cause is good but there are many ways to do it.

  I kinda liked that idea of the letters all on a CD. I like the idea of then posted all over the place and you linking to them. Excellent thoughts here folks
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  shambala

  Jourles,

  Sorry to read what they are trying to do. You must be careful not to be shut down. If necessary temporarily remove offending items.

  What are they so scared of anyway?? I thought the truth was like a shining light. More like a dark shadow.

  Shambala