Ensuring the protection of intellectual property rights
https://arab.news/z8atu
The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has accelerated the use of modern technology in doing business. Social distancing measures enforced to keep the virus at bay have led to a boost in e-commerce globally.
Businesses have become more reliant on digital applications, or apps, for the supply of goods and services. This latest trend, which is here to stay, has given rise to the need for strong intellectual property rights and even stricter measures to protect ideas and products.
Protection of intellectual property is no longer an option; it has become mandatory in a new era where products and services are just a few clicks away.
It is necessary to protect an idea that may lead to new, innovative products, such as apps. Many people are unaware that the effective protection of an idea or app requires a strong legal framework, which involves a series of agreements aimed to limit its ownership to its developer. The framework also takes into account partnerships in this regard.
Owners at this stage and especially during negotiations with other partners and financiers must provide and secure confidentiality and nondisclosure agreements. In the second step, they can delineate ownership rights in the main contract, breaking down all aspects related to the use of the idea, as the app may only be a part of a broader idea.
The app must then be registered as a classified work with the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP).
SAIP is responsible for managing and protecting intellectual property rights in Saudi Arabia. The authority recently announced the launch of an optional registration service for software and computer applications and designs for those interested, creating an electronic database for this purpose.
The next step is the registration of a distinctive trademark for the idea to prevent its illegal and unfair use. Without registration, there is always the risk that one’s trademark is used illegally, affecting a product’s success in the long run.
• Dimah Talal Alsharif is a Saudi lawyer and legal consultant. Twitter: @dimah_alsharif