Author: Editor VCD

Is cutting movie scenes to attract views punishable like piracy

Written by Editor VCD on 22 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Cinematographic work, Copyright Registration. No Comments on Is cutting movie scenes to attract views punishable like piracy

The trend of cutting short movie clips and posting them on social media to “gain views” has become very popular. These clips are often climactic scenes or humorous situations from the film. However, many people mistakenly believe that simply shortening the film content will not violate copyright. Let’s find out with VCD whether cutting movie scenes to gain views is punishable like piracy!

Is cutting movie scenes and posting them online a copyright violation?

According to Clause 1, Article 14 of the 2022 Intellectual Property Law, cinematographic works are classified as works protected by copyright. This means that all film content belongs to the property of the owner, including the right to copy, distribute, and communicate to the public.

Therefore, when an individual cuts a film clip and uploads it to social media, legally speaking, this act is not simply “sharing entertainment content,” but includes two main elements:

Copying a portion of a film

Communicating content to the public through a digital platform

Importantly, the law does not require uploading the entire film to be considered a violation. Simply using a portion of copyrighted content without permission, especially for the purpose of attracting views or making money, can still result in legal consequences.

Particularly in today’s social media environment, short film clips are often used to attract views, increase interaction, or even enable monetization. When commercial elements are involved, the level of violation becomes even clearer, as this act can directly affect the exploitation rights and revenue of the copyright holder.

Therefore, “shortening a film” does not change the legal nature of the act. Without permission from the copyright owner, uploading still risks being considered copyright infringement and will be prosecuted according to current laws.

Is cutting scenes to gain views punishable like piracy?

From a legal standpoint, both acts of cutting scenes to gain views and piracy share the commonality of using a cinematic work without the permission of the copyright owner. This is the core element that makes both potentially considered copyright infringement.

However, the degree of violation and the nature of exploitation may differ:

Pirated films: Usually involves showing the entire or almost entire cinematic work, allowing viewers to replace the legitimate viewing experience without needing a legal source. This clearly demonstrates the nature of illegal copying and distribution on a large scale.

Cutting scenes to gain views: Using only a portion of the film’s content, usually climactic, attention-grabbing, or highly entertaining scenes. Even without posting the entire film, the original content’s value can still be exploited to attract views, interactions, or generate revenue.

Despite the different forms, in principle, both can be considered copyright infringement, especially in the following cases:

Content is publicly posted on social media or video platforms

The purpose is to attract views, increase interaction, or enable advertising monetization

Or it affects the commercial viability of the original work

In reality, many cases of short, viral film clips are still subject to copyright infringement, removal, or complaints. Furthermore, if the exploitation is systematic or clearly serves a commercial purpose, this behavior can be treated similarly to cases of illegal film re-uploading.

Penalties for cutting film scenes to gain views

Cutting film scenes and posting them on social media to gain views, especially when there’s an element of earning money from advertising or building a commercial channel, can be considered copyright infringement. Depending on the severity of the violation, the scale of exploitation, and the damage caused, the perpetrator may be subject to various forms of punishment, from administrative to criminal.

Administrative penalties: Fines as stipulated in copyright law, with the amount increasing if the act is commercial in nature or a repeat offense, and requiring the removal of all infringing content from the digital platform.

Criminal liability (in serious cases): Fines, non-custodial correctional penalties, or imprisonment in cases of organized, large-scale violations with high illicit profits.

The above is an article titled ” Is cutting movie scenes to attract views punishable like piracy?”. Cutting scenes from films to post online for views is not simply an act of sharing entertainment content; it can directly involve copyright infringement under the law.

Sincerely,

FAQ

Is cutting short film scenes of a few seconds considered copyright infringement?

Possibly. The law does not specify a minimum length. Even a short segment, if the content is still copyrighted and its use is not permitted, can still be considered copyright infringement.

Is cutting film scenes for reviews considered legal?

It may be considered legal if it involves commentary, analysis, and creative reinterpretation of the content. However, using too many film segments or replacing the original content still carries the risk of copyright infringement.

Is scanning books to sell as PDF files punishable?

Written by Editor VCD on 21 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Copyright Registration, Written works. No Comments on Is scanning books to sell as PDF files punishable?

The question of whether scanning books to sell as PDF files is punishable is a concern for many people when doing business or sharing documents online. In reality, this is a copyright infringement and can be subject to penalties ranging from administrative to criminal depending on the severity of the violation, according to current laws. Let’s explore the details in the article “Is scanning books to sell as PDF files punishable?” below!

What is scanning books to sell as PDF files?

Scanning books to sell as PDF files is the act of converting the content of a physical book into a digital format (PDF) using devices such as scanners, phones, or specialized software, and then uploading this file to the internet for sale or distribution for a fee to many people.

More fully understood, this is not just a regular “document scanning” activity, but a process of digitizing and exploiting content for commercial purposes. The content of a book, including text, images, and layout, is the property of the author or publisher, but it is copied and redistributed without permission.

Typically, this practice involves several detailed steps:

Digitizing the book

The perpetrator uses tools such as specialized scanners, high-resolution camera phones, and scanning software (e.g., Adobe Scan, CamScanner) to photograph or scan individual pages of the book. These data are then combined into a complete PDF file, adjusted for layout, brightness, sharpness, and even OCR technology is used to convert images to text. The result is a PDF file with content almost identical to the original book, easily readable, copyable, and shareable.

Processing and finalizing the file

After creating the PDF file, the seller often compresses the file size for easier sending and downloading, adds watermarks or personal logos, renames the file, and categorizes it by subject or collection. In some cases, people even edit the cover or slightly alter the content to avoid detection of copyright infringement.

Commercial exploitation

This is the step that transforms the act of scanning into a money-making activity. The completed PDF files are then sold on various platforms such as: Facebook (posts, inbox, private groups), document sharing websites, e-commerce platforms like Shopee, and channels like Telegram, Zalo, and Google Drive.

The business models are quite diverse: selling individual books at low prices, selling book bundles, and charging for access to a “PDF library.”

Scanning books to sell PDF files is not simply a document format conversion; it’s a digitization process accompanied by commercial exploitation of copyrighted content. Understanding this concept helps you identify the boundary between legal use and legal infringement, thereby avoiding unnecessary risks during the business or sharing of documents.

Is scanning books to sell PDF files punishable?

Scanning books to sell as PDF files can result in penalties, even severe sanctions depending on the severity of the violation. This is because it’s not simply “sharing documents,” but a direct infringement of copyright and related rights protected by law.

According to the Intellectual Property Law, authors and copyright owners have the exclusive right to copy, distribute, and commercially exploit their works. Therefore, scanning books and converting them into PDF files for sale without permission constitutes a violation of intellectual property rights.

Specifically, this behavior includes various forms of infringement such as:

Copying the work (scanning, converting to PDF files) without the owner’s consent

Distributing the work to the public through selling or sharing PDF files

Unauthorized commercial exploitation of copyrighted content

In particular, uploading or sharing pirated PDF books on social media, Google Drive, websites, or other online platforms is also considered an act of communicating the work to the public – an exclusive property right of the copyright owner.

Therefore, unauthorized scanning, distribution, or trading of PDF book files can be prosecuted under current laws, depending on the nature and severity of the violation.

Penalties for scanning books to sell as PDF files

The act of scanning books to create PDF files and selling them illegally can be punished at various levels, depending on the nature and scale of the violation and the amount of illicit profit. According to Decree 17/2023/ND-CP, the penalties for book copyright infringement currently vary depending on the severity:

Administrative penalties: Violators may be fined from 10 to 250 million VND, depending on the specific act and level of violation, such as illegally copying books, trading or distributing pirated books, translating/adapting works without permission, or posting/sharing works on the internet in violation of regulations.

Remedial and supplementary measures: All infringing materials (including printed copies, PDF files, storage devices, etc.) may be confiscated, the infringing content must be removed from online platforms, and the illegally copied books or data must be destroyed.

Civil liability: Copyright owners or publishers have the right to claim compensation for damages, ranging from a few million to hundreds of millions of VND depending on the actual damage. They can also demand the cessation of the infringing act and a public apology or correction if necessary.

Criminal liability (in serious cases): According to Article 225 of the Penal Code, if the act of illegal printing, copying, or distribution is on a large scale or generates significant illicit profits, the violator may be fined from 50 to 300 million VND, or sentenced to non-custodial correctional labor up to a maximum of 3 years in prison, along with additional penalties as prescribed.

The above is an article titled ” Is scanning books to sell as PDF files punishable?”. Depending on the nature and scale of the violation, the perpetrator may face administrative penalties, be required to compensate for damages, or, more seriously, be prosecuted criminally. Therefore, respecting copyright and using materials legally is not only about complying with the law but also contributes to protecting the rights of authors and the publishing industry.

Sincerely,

FAQ

1. Is selling pirated PDF books subject to criminal prosecution?

Yes. In cases of large-scale, commercial violations resulting in significant illicit gains, the violator may be prosecuted under the provisions of the Criminal Code.

2. Is simply sharing free PDF book files subject to penalties?

Possibly. If the PDF file is an unauthorized copy and widely shared on the internet without the owner’s permission, this act may still be considered a copyright infringement, even without direct profit.

Is cracking Photoshop software punishable?

Written by Editor VCD on 20 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Computer program and data compilation, Copyright Registration. No Comments on Is cracking Photoshop software punishable?

Adobe Photoshop is a familiar tool for designers, marketers, and content creators. However, not everyone is willing to pay the license fee, leading to the widespread use of cracked versions on the internet. So, is cracking Adobe Photoshop punishable? If detected, what are the penalties? This article “Is cracking Photoshop software punishable?” from VCD will help you understand the legal risks and how to use the software legally.

What is cracking Adobe Photoshop?

Cracking software is the act of interfering with the source code, activation system, or copyright protection mechanism of the publisher in order to use the software without paying legal fees. This is not simply “free installation,” but actually the process of bypassing protection layers such as license keys, login accounts, or online license verification systems.

For Adobe Photoshop – a product owned by Adobe – all versions are managed through the Adobe Creative Cloud ecosystem. This means users are required to:

Pay a monthly or annual subscription fee

Comply with the software licensing terms

However, cracked versions of Photoshop found online often come with tools such as:

Keygens: Creating fake license keys

Patches: Modifying system files to disable license checks

Pre-activated versions: Versions that are already “activated”

These methods may allow the software to function without payment, but they completely bypass Adobe’s established copyright protection mechanisms, eliminating the ability to control the legal use of the software. This directly infringes upon the rights and interests of the copyright holder, poses legal risks to users, and leads to many negative consequences such as data insecurity, malware infection, and lack of official updates or support during use.

Is cracking Adobe Photoshop punishable?

Using cracked software like Adobe Photoshop is not simply “temporary use” or “harmless,” but is essentially considered copyright infringement under Vietnamese law.

Specifically, computer software is protected by copyright under the Intellectual Property Law. Downloading, installing, and using cracked versions often involves copying and using the software without the copyright owner’s permission. This may constitute a violation of Clause 4, Article 28 of the Intellectual Property Law regarding copyright infringement. “Intentionally destroying or rendering ineffective effective technological measures implemented by the author or copyright owner to protect their copyright in their work” is prohibited. Furthermore, the use of unlicensed software directly affects the publisher’s legitimate commercial exploitation rights.

Therefore, cracked Adobe Photoshop is not a “free version,” but rather software used illegally, posing numerous legal risks. Users may not only face administrative penalties, forced removal and destruction of the infringing software, but in serious cases, may also incur higher legal liability and face financial, reputational, and data security consequences.

Penalties for cracking Adobe Photoshop

Cracking Adobe Photoshop software is considered an act of interfering with and disabling copyright protection measures. According to Article 20 of Decree 28/2017/ND-CP, this act may be subject to the following penalties:

A fine of VND 5,000,000 – VND 10,000,000: Applied to the act of intentionally destroying or disabling technical and technological measures established by the copyright owner to protect the software.

A fine of VND 10,000,000 – VND 20,000,000: Applied when an individual/organization produces, distributes, sells, leases, or imports tools used for cracking software.

A fine of VND 3,000,000 – VND 5,000,000: Applied to the act of deleting or changing management information associated with the software.

Besides monetary fines, violators may also be subject to remedial measures, including:

Forced destruction of infringing software or tools

Forced re-export or destruction of confiscated goods (for infringing imported goods)

Note: The above penalties for cracking Adobe Photoshop apply to individuals; for organizations, the penalty will be double, potentially reaching 20-40 million VND depending on the specific violation.

Therefore, cracking Adobe Photoshop is not just a simple copyright infringement but can also lead to significant financial penalties if detected, including administrative fines, remedial obligations such as removing and destroying infringing software; in some serious cases, it can even result in higher legal liability, directly affecting the reputation of individuals or businesses.

The above article is titled ” Is cracking Photoshop software punishable?”. Hopefully, this will help you understand the legal regulations so you can choose to use software correctly and avoid unnecessary risks.

Sincerely,

FAQ

1. If I only use cracked Photoshop for personal use, not for business, will I be fined?

You can still be fined. The law not only deals with the business of selling pirated software but also applies to the unauthorized use, including for personal purposes.

2. What are the risks of using cracked Photoshop besides legal issues?

Besides the risk of being fined, users may also face risks such as: virus infection, data loss, information theft, lack of software updates, and lack of technical support from the publisher.

Should you register a work that is currently under dispute?

Written by Editor VCD on 20 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Copyright Registration, Copyright-related rights. No Comments on Should you register a work that is currently under dispute?

In the creative and exploitation of works, copyright disputes are relatively common. Many disputes arise because the parties involved cannot clearly identify who is the author, who owns the intellectual property rights to the work, or because the work is used without the consent of the copyright holder. When a dispute arises, one of the common concerns is whether a work currently under dispute can be registered for copyright. This article “Should you register a work that is currently under dispute?” by VCD will help you.

Should you register a work that is currently under dispute?

According to the current Vietnamese Intellectual Property Law, there is no absolute prohibition against registering copyright for works that are currently under dispute. This means that, in principle, individuals or organizations can still file for copyright registration even if a dispute exists related to that work.

However, it is necessary to understand the true nature of the copyright registration procedure. The copyright registration authority primarily receives and reviews applications based on information provided by the applicant. This review focuses mainly on the completeness of the application, the form of expression of the work, and accompanying documents as required by law, rather than conducting a comprehensive verification to determine who is the ultimate legal owner of the work.

Therefore, in many cases, even if a work is subject to a dispute, if the application meets the procedural requirements, the competent authority may still issue a Certificate of Copyright Registration. However, the issuance of the Certificate does not mean the dispute has been resolved or that the applicant is definitely the legal owner of the work.

If evidence later proves that the registration was made by the wrong party, that the declaration was untrue, or that there was an act of copyright infringement, the issued certificate may still be revoked according to the law.

Does copyright registration terminate disputes?

Many people mistakenly believe that whoever registers first is guaranteed to win a dispute. However, copyright law does not stipulate the principle of “first come, first served.”

According to Clause 1, Article 6 of the Intellectual Property Law, copyright arises from the moment the work is created, not from the moment the copyright registration certificate is issued.

Essentially, the copyright registration certificate primarily serves to record the information provided by the applicant and creates initial evidence in case of disputes. However, it is not an absolute basis for determining ultimate ownership of the work.

During the dispute resolution process, the competent authority or the Court will still comprehensively review all documents and evidence related to the creation of the work and the basis for establishing the rights of the parties. Evidence such as original files, drafts, created data, work-related emails, creative contracts, or work assignment documents are often crucial in determining who is the true owner of the rights to the work.

Therefore, copyright registration does not automatically terminate a dispute. Even if one party has been granted a Certificate of Copyright Registration, the other party still has the right to appeal, sue, or request the cancellation of the certificate if there is reason to believe that the registration is inconsistent with the actual ownership of the work.

What preparations are needed if you want to register during a dispute?

When a work is under dispute, copyright registration needs to be carried out with more caution than usual. Because at this stage, the registration documents not only serve administrative purposes but can also become documents used in resolving disputes later.

The most important thing an individual or organization needs to prepare is evidence proving their rights to the work. In fact, in copyright disputes, the decisive factor is often not who registered first, but who has the basis to prove the creative process or legal ownership of the work.

Documents that should be kept include the original file of the work, drafts, data showing the creative process, emails exchanged during the work, creative contracts, work assignment documents, or evidence of the time of publication and use of the work. These are important documents that help prove the connection between the applicant and the creation process of the work.

In addition to preparing evidence, applicants also need to clearly identify their legal status, such as whether they are the author or copyright owner, whether the work has co-authors, or whether there is an agreement to transfer or assign work related to the work. Incorrect identification of the rights holder can lead to further disputes or the risk of registering the wrong rights.

Above is the article “Should you register a work that is under dispute?” that VCD sent to you. We hope this article is helpful to you.

Sincerely,

FAQ

1. Can a work that is under dispute be registered for copyright?

Yes. Current law does not prohibit copyright registration for works that are under dispute. However, being granted a Certificate of Copyright Registration does not mean that the registrant is guaranteed to be the ultimate legal owner of the work.

2. What should be noted when registering copyright while it is under dispute?

The registrant needs to prepare sufficient evidence to prove the creative process and ownership of the work, such as original files, drafts, work-related emails, or related contracts, to minimize legal risks later on.

Is reading free comics on illegal websites punishable?

Written by Editor VCD on 20 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Cinematographic work, Copyright Registration, Copyright-related rights. No Comments on Is reading free comics on illegal websites punishable?

Reading comics online has become a popular habit for many people, especially students. With just a phone or computer connected to the internet, users can easily access thousands of comics completely free of charge. However, the majority of these come from websites that lack legal copyright. This raises an important question: Is reading free comics on illegal websites punishable? Let’s find out in the article below!

What are pirated comic websites?

Pirated comic websites are websites that publish and share comics without the permission of the author, publisher, or copyright holder. This is a violation of copyright, as comics are a type of work protected by law.

Identifying pirated comic websites

You can identify these websites through several common signs:

Offering completely free comics, including newly released series

Not publicly disclosing copyright information or publisher details

Updating chapters very quickly, even earlier than the official versions

Incorporating numerous advertisements (banners, pop-ups, page redirects)

Some websites even use eye-catching interfaces and optimized user experience to retain readers, leading many to mistakenly believe they are legitimate platforms.

How they operate

Most pirated comic websites operate on the following model:

Copying content from official sources (scanning, translating, re-uploading)

Posting content for free to attract readers

Earning money from advertising, affiliate marketing, or related services

This means they are illegally exploiting intellectual property for commercial purposes.

Is reading free comics on illegal websites punishable?

According to Article 14 of the 2022 Intellectual Property Law, comics are a type of work protected by copyright. The owner has basic rights such as: the right to copy, the right to distribute copies, and the right to communicate the work to the public. The law also clearly stipulates that any use of a work without the owner’s permission may be considered copyright infringement.

However, to accurately assess legal responsibility, it is necessary to clearly distinguish the roles of each involved party:

Websites posting pirated comics are the direct violators due to the unauthorized posting of content.

Uploaders and sharers of comics are the disseminators, contributing to the spread of infringing content.

Readers of comics are the users of the content.

In this case, readers do not directly engage in the act of copying or distributing. However, reading comics on pirated websites means:

Accessing content that lacks legal copyright

Contributing traffic to the infringing website

Indirectly generating advertising revenue for these platforms

Therefore, in essence, the act of reading pirated comics is still related to the use of copyrighted content, although it is not a direct infringement in the strict legal sense.

In fact, current Vietnamese law does not have provisions for directly penalizing the act of simply reading comics on pirated websites. The sanctions primarily focus on entities with more blatant violations, including:

Owners or operators of infringing websites

Individuals and organizations that upload and distribute illegal content

Parties that exploit infringing content for commercial purposes

In short, readers of pirated comics are not currently directly penalized, but this behavior still poses risks and contributes to maintaining the ecosystem of copyright infringement in the digital environment.

Risks of reading comics on pirated websites

Beyond legal issues, reading comics on pirated websites also carries many risks that users often overlook. These risks not only directly affect personal experiences but also negatively impact the entire content creation ecosystem.

Security risks

Pirated comic websites are often not subject to security checks, making them easy breeding grounds for malware. When accessing or downloading content from these sites, users may face:

Risk of virus and malware infection: Hidden files or advertisements may contain Trojans, spyware, or malicious software.

Theft of personal information: Email accounts, social media accounts, and even banking information may be illegally collected.

Redirection to phishing websites: Many sites use pop-ups or hidden links to lead users to fake websites.

In many cases, users are unaware that their device has been compromised until a serious incident occurs.

Poor reading experience

One of the most noticeable problems when reading comics on pirated websites is the poor quality of content and the unsatisfactory reading experience:

Excessive and disruptive advertisements: Pop-ups constantly appear, sometimes even covering the entire screen, reducing the reading experience.

Inaccurate content: Translations are inaccurate, illogical, and detract from the original value of the work.

Missing chapters or inconsistent updates: Many series are incomplete, out of order, or abruptly stopped.

Poor image quality: Images are compressed, blurry, or improperly cropped.

These factors make the reading experience unprofessional and incomplete.

Impact on the content creation industry

A greater but less-noticed risk is the long-term impact on the creative industry:

Authors do not receive adequate compensation: Creative effort is exploited for free.

Publishers suffer revenue losses: Affecting their ability to invest in and develop new content.

Reduced motivation for creativity: When revenue is not guaranteed, authors may stop or limit the production of their works.

The above is an article titled “Is reading free comics on illegal websites punishable?”. Hopefully, the information above helps you better understand the legal regulations and consider choosing legitimate platforms to read comics, ensuring safety and contributing to protecting the rights of authors and the publishing industry.

Sincerely,

FAQ

1. Is sharing comics from pirated websites punishable?

Yes. Sharing, reposting, or distributing comics from pirated sources is considered illegal distribution and may result in administrative penalties or more severe penalties depending on the severity of the violation.

2. How to identify a legitimate comic website?

You can identify them through factors such as: clear copyright information, belonging to an official platform, not indiscriminately posting new comic series for free, and having a transparent usage policy.

Is placing advertisements on illegal movie websites subject to legal liability?

Written by Editor VCD on 19 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Copyright Registration, Copyright-related rights. No Comments on Is placing advertisements on illegal movie websites subject to legal liability?

With the increasing scrutiny of illegal movie streaming websites, a question of concern for many businesses, especially marketing agencies, is whether placing advertisements on these sites will result in legal liability. Let’s explore this in detail in the article below!

What is advertising on illegal movie streaming websites?

Advertising on illegal movie streaming websites means that businesses, individuals, or brands display promotional content (banners, videos, pop-ups, native ads, etc.) on websites that provide movies but have not been legally licensed by the content owners. This is a fairly common form of advertising in the “unofficial” digital content ecosystem, where traffic is high but the content violates copyright.

Essentially, illegal movie streaming websites operate by attracting users with free or cheap content, then generating profit from advertising. Therefore, when businesses place advertisements on these platforms, whether directly or indirectly, they are contributing to the revenue and operation of the infringing website.

Characteristics of advertising on pirated movie websites

Pirated movie websites typically have several characteristics:

Offer free or illegally paid movies

Do not have a content distribution license

Use advertising as their primary source of revenue

Therefore, advertising is the “lifeline” that keeps these websites running. When businesses place advertisements here, whether directly or indirectly, they are contributing to the revenue of the infringing platform.

Common forms of advertising

Placing advertisements on pirated movie websites can take many forms:

Direct advertising: signing a contract with the website owner

Advertising through intermediaries: through advertising networks

Automated advertising: such as Google Ads, displayed according to algorithms

Of these, automated advertising is the most common and also the most controversial regarding legal liability.

Is placing advertisements on pirated movie websites subject to liability?

Currently, Vietnamese law does not have specific regulations or direct penalties for the act of “placing advertisements on pirated movie websites.” However, this does not mean that businesses are exempt from liability, as this act can still be considered as a form of joint liability under copyright law.

According to Vietnam’s Intellectual Property Law, distributing pirated films is an infringement of copyright and related rights. Not only the entity directly posting the infringing content, but also related parties who support or benefit from the infringement may be held liable.

This can be understood as follows:

The pirated movie website is the primary infringing entity.

The business placing the advertisement may be considered an indirect accomplice.

If authorities can prove the element of “intentional intent,” joint liability is entirely possible.

Businesses that place advertisements on pirated movie websites risk legal action

Not all advertisements appearing on pirated movie websites will be penalized. However, in many specific situations, businesses can still face significant legal risks, especially when the advertising activity shows signs of supporting or benefiting from copyrighted content.

Below are typical cases that businesses need to pay special attention to:

Knowing the website is infringing but still cooperating

This is a key factor. If a business is aware that the website is a platform for showing pirated movies but still actively places advertisements to take advantage of traffic, this behavior may be considered aiding and abetting copyright infringement.

Having a direct advertising agreement

If a business signs an advertising contract with a pirated movie website or pays directly to display advertisements, this is clear evidence of intentional cooperation, making legal responsibility more specific and difficult to deny.

Significant profits from illegally accessible websites

Another crucial factor is the extent of profit derived from advertising. If the infringement constitutes a crime, the organizations and individuals involved may face criminal prosecution.

In cases where a business profits significantly from advertising on pirated movie websites and the activity is organized or large-scale, the act is no longer “accidental” but may be considered intentional profiteering from the violation of the law. It may be considered complicity or joint liability in copyright infringement.

In short, although the law does not yet directly penalize the act of placing advertisements on pirated movie websites, if a business acts intentionally and benefits from the infringement, it can be prosecuted under current regulations. The line between “not violating” and “being jointly liable” lies in the level of awareness and specific actions of the business.

Above is the article ” Is placing advertisements on illegal movie websites subject to legal liability?”. Hopefully, the information above helps you understand the legal risks and proactively control your advertising activities to avoid violations.

Sincerely,

FAQ

1. Why do pirated movie websites rely on advertising?

Pirated movie websites do not generate revenue from content copyrights, so advertising is the main source of income to maintain operations. The more ads, the better the website’s ability to survive and expand.

2. Is advertising on pirated movie websites always proactively managed by the business?

No. In many cases, ads are distributed automatically through platforms like Google Ads, meaning businesses do not have complete control over display locations. However, businesses still need to take control measures to avoid risks.

What are the latest penalties for illegal movie streaming websites?

Written by Editor VCD on 19 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Copyright Registration, Copyright-related rights. No Comments on What are the latest penalties for illegal movie streaming websites?

In recent years, the number of illegal movie streaming websites in Vietnam has increased significantly, causing serious damage to the film industry and infringing on intellectual property rights. Therefore, the government has continuously tightened management and increased penalties for this behavior. So, what are the latest penalties for illegal movie streaming websites? Let’s find out in detail below.

What constitutes an illegal movie streaming website?

An illegal movie streaming website is a website that provides, broadcasts, or allows users to view or download films without the permission of the copyright owner.

A website is considered to be illegally streaming movies if it exhibits the following characteristics:

Uploading newly released theatrical films or copyrighted films without a license

Allowing free or paid viewing of films without paying royalties

Lacking clear legal information about the distributor

Inserting numerous advertisements to profit from infringing content

According to Vietnamese law, this behavior is classified as an infringement of copyright and related rights, specifically the right to communicate the work to the public. Not only the website operator, but also those who share and distribute pirated film content can be penalized.

The trend of tightening management of illegal movie streaming websites in 2026

Notably, entering 2026, the Government has implemented many strong measures to control and thoroughly address copyright infringement in the digital environment, especially illegal movie streaming websites. These are no longer isolated incidents but have become a systematic campaign, with close coordination among multiple regulatory agencies such as the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Ministry of Information and Communications, and cybersecurity units.

During this peak period, authorities are required to review, detect, and dismantle copyright-infringing websites with high traffic, organized operations, and illicit profits from advertising or paid services. Beyond simply blocking access, many websites are being investigated for their operational sources, tracing money flows, and prosecuting the individuals and organizations behind them.

In addition, technical measures are being strengthened, including coordination with internet service providers (ISPs) to block domains and quickly remove infringing content, as well as cooperation with cross-border platforms to prevent the distribution of pirated films from abroad into Vietnam.

These developments reveal several distinct trends:

The handling of pirated movie websites is no longer a piecemeal issue, but has become a long-term strategy to protect intellectual property rights in the digital age.

Large, organized, professionally operated, and highly profitable websites will become “key targets” for strong enforcement.

Beyond administrative penalties, many serious cases will face criminal prosecution.

Control activities will expand, not only domestically but also involving international platforms.

It is clear that the trend of tightening management in 2026 reflects the State’s determination to clean up the digital content environment, protect the rights of producers, and promote the sustainable development of the entertainment market. In this context, operating or participating in pirated movie websites will pose increasingly greater legal risks and will be more difficult to circumvent the law than before.

What are the latest penalties for websites that illegally stream movies?

The act of distributing pirated films, including showing, broadcasting, or distributing films without the permission of the copyright owner, is defined as an infringement of copyright and related rights, usually for the purpose of illicit gain. According to current law, depending on the severity of the violation, individuals or organizations may be subject to administrative penalties or criminal prosecution.

Administrative penalties

According to Article 15 of Decree 131/2013/ND-CP, the act of distributing pirated films may be subject to administrative penalties ranging from VND 10 million to VND 30 million for infringing the right to communicate the work to the public.

In addition, violators may also be subject to remedial measures such as:

Forced removal of infringing content

Forced destruction of infringing copies

Forced return of profits obtained from the illegal act

Criminal prosecution

In cases where the distribution of pirated films is large-scale or causes significant damage, violators may be prosecuted under Article 211 of the Vietnamese Intellectual Property Law and Article 225 of the 2015 Penal Code concerning the crime of infringing copyright and related rights.

Specifically, violators may be fined from VND 50 million to VND 300 million, or sentenced to non-custodial correctional labor for up to 3 years.

This applies when one of the following signs is present:

Illegally profiting from 50 million VND to less than 300 million VND

Causing damage from 100 million VND to less than 500 million VND

Infringing goods valued from 100 million VND to less than 500 million VND

In more serious cases, the penalties will be increased:

Fines from 300 million VND to 1 billion VND or

Imprisonment from 6 months to 3 years

This applies when the crime is organized, committed two or more times, illegally profiting from 300 million VND or more, causing damage from 500 million VND or more, and infringing goods valued from 500 million VND or more.

Handling for commercial legal entities

Not only individuals, but also organizations (commercial legal entities) operating pirated movie websites will face severe legal responsibility. Specifically:

Fines ranging from 300 million VND to 3 billion VND

May be suspended from operation for 6 months to 2 years

Prohibited from doing business or raising capital in certain fields for 1 to 3 years

Thus, the penalties for illegal movie streaming websites are not limited to administrative fines but can also lead to criminal liability with severe penalties. This shows that Vietnamese law is increasingly tightening and strictly dealing with copyright infringement in the digital environment.

The above is the article ” What are the latest penalties for illegal movie streaming websites?”. Hopefully, the information shared has helped you better understand illegal movie websites and the penalties under current law.

Sincerely,

FAQ

1. Will people who watch illegal movies be penalized?

Generally, people who only watch illegal movies are rarely directly penalized. However, downloading and sharing pirated films on social media or other websites can still result in penalties under Vietnam’s Intellectual Property Law regarding copyright infringement.

2. When is the act of distributing pirated films subject to criminal prosecution?

The act of distributing pirated films will be subject to criminal prosecution when there are elements constituting a crime as stipulated in the 2015 Penal Code, such as:
Illegally profiting from 50 million VND or more
Causing significant damage to the copyright owner
Carrying out the act in an organized or commercial scale.

Should you register copyright while your work is still being edited?

Written by Editor VCD on 13 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Copyright Registration, Copyright-related rights. No Comments on Should you register copyright while your work is still being edited?

In creative endeavors, very few works are perfect from the first attempt. A design can be continuously refined, software can be updated with new features, and books or media content often undergo multiple revisions before publication. Therefore, many individuals and businesses wonder whether they should register copyright while their work is still being edited or wait until it is completely finished before receiving protection. This VCD article “Should you register copyright while your work is still being edited?” will help you understand this issue better.

Does the law require a work to be 100% complete before registration?

According to the current Intellectual Property Law of 2022, copyright arises from the moment a work is created and expressed in a certain physical form, regardless of whether it has been published or registered. This means that Vietnamese law does not require a work to be absolutely perfect in order to be protected by copyright.

Essentially, the law protects the “form of expression” of creative ideas, not just the idea itself that remains in thought. Therefore, as long as the work has been expressed externally in a visible, audible, or storeable form such as text, images, drawings, design files, software source code, sound recordings, or electronic data, there is grounds to establish copyright.

However, the fact that the law allows registration does not mean that every case should be registered immediately. The copyright certificate will record the content of the work at the time of application. If the work is subsequently altered significantly, the actual version in use may differ considerably from the registered version. In the event of a dispute, this can sometimes reduce the value of comparison or create the need to register a new version.

Therefore, although the law does not require a work to be absolutely perfect before registration, it should have a certain degree of stability before registration to ensure effective protection.

What are the benefits of early copyright registration?

In many cases, early copyright registration provides significant legal protection, especially for works that are commercially exploitable or easily copied in the digital environment.

First, early registration creates clear legal evidence of when the work was created. According to the law, a copyright registration certificate does not create copyright, but it is an important basis for proving who the author is, who the owner is, and when the work existed. In case of a dispute, the party holding the certificate usually has a significant advantage in proving their rights.

Current practice shows that many disputes arise from works being sent to clients, collaborators, or posted online before registration. When copied or modified illegally, authors often face difficulties proving their original creative process without clear legal documentation.

In addition, early registration helps limit the risk of someone else “registering first.” Although the person who registers first may not necessarily be the legal owner, in reality, resolving disputes becomes more complicated and time-consuming if a certificate already exists in someone else’s name.

Beyond protecting rights, early copyright registration also has commercial value. Many businesses now use copyright certificates as intellectual property assets to:

sign transfer contracts;

franchise agreements;

raise investment capital;

Proving ownership of the software, design, or creative content.

However, if the work is constantly changing or the author or owner is not clearly identified, registering too early may sometimes lead to additional procedures for modification or re-registration.

When should you register your copyright?

There isn’t a fixed timeframe for all types of works. However, from a legal and practical perspective, copyright registration should be done as soon as the work reaches a relatively complete stage and is ready for practical use.

First, registration should be done when the work is about to be publicly released or launched. This is when the risk of unauthorized copying, modification, or use increases significantly. A logo being prepared for use in a brand, software being prepared for commercialization, or an online course about to be released should all be registered before being widely publicized.

Additionally, early registration is advisable when the work has high commercial value or involves multiple creative parties. In projects with designers, programmers, collaborators, or internal staff, establishing ownership early will help limit future disputes, especially those related to authorship or ownership. It can be seen that registering copyright while a work is still being edited is completely permissible under the law. However, the important thing is not whether the work is “perfect” or not, but whether the work is stable enough to accurately reflect the creative achievement and serve the purpose of protecting the rights of the owner.

The above is the article “Should you register copyright while a work is still being edited?” that VCD has sent to you. We hope this article is useful to you.

Sincerely,

FAQ

1. Can an unfinished work be copyrighted?

Yes. According to the Intellectual Property Law of 2005, copyright arises when the work is expressed in a certain physical form; it is not mandatory to be 100% complete before registration.

2. Should you register copyright while a work is still being edited?

It is advisable to register when the work is relatively stable and ready for publication or commercial exploitation. If the work still requires significant changes, further refinement may be considered to avoid re-registration or discrepancies between the registered version and the actual version used.

Is downloading cracked games for free a copyright violation?

Written by Editor VCD on 12 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Computer program and data compilation, Copyright Registration. No Comments on Is downloading cracked games for free a copyright violation?

Many people turn to cracked games because they can play blockbuster games without spending money. However, behind this convenience lie worrying legal issues that not everyone is fully aware of. Specifically, does downloading free cracked games violate copyright? Let’s explore this in the article below!

What is downloading free cracked games?

Downloading free cracked games means users download versions of games that have been modified, altered, or cracked to disable the publisher’s copyright protection mechanisms. This allows players to access and experience the full game content without purchasing a legal license or logging into an official account.

Essentially, this is the use of unlicensed software, as the game has had its protection layers removed, such as license keys, DRM (Digital Rights Management), or online authentication systems. These versions are often shared on unofficial websites, forums, or platforms.

Typically, legitimate games require purchasing a license key, connecting an official account, and verifying through the publisher’s system.

However, with cracked games:

Protection mechanisms are disabled

Users can play for free

Games are widely shared on unofficial websites

This means the publisher does not receive any revenue from users.

Why are cracked games popular?

Cracked games still exist and thrive on the internet despite the many risks involved. The main reason is that this format caters to the short-term “user psychology,” especially those who want to experience games but do not want or cannot afford the cost of a license.

Cracked games are popular for several reasons:

Completely free: This is the most attractive factor. Players can experience games that cost hundreds of thousands to millions of Vietnamese dong without paying any fees.

Easy to download, no account registration required: Unlike official platforms that require account creation, email verification, or payment, cracked games usually only require downloading and installing the file to play immediately.

Many “blockbuster” games are readily available: Many popular games, even newly released ones, are quickly cracked and widely shared, making them easily accessible to users.

Not restricted by platform: Users don’t need to install launchers like Steam or Epic Games, thus reducing intermediate steps when playing games.

The “try before you buy” mentality: Some people use cracked games as a way to experience them first, then consider buying the licensed version later (although in reality, not everyone ends up buying).

However, behind the “free” and convenience, cracked games harbor many risks that not all users anticipate.

Is downloading cracked games for free a copyright violation?

To answer accurately, we need to look at the legal nature of the act of “cracking” and how Vietnamese law regulates this issue.

According to Clause 4, Article 28 of the 2022 Intellectual Property Law: “Intentionally destroying or rendering ineffective effective technological measures implemented by the author or copyright owner to protect their copyright in their work.”

In practice, “cracking” is the act of interfering with the source code or installation files, thereby disabling copyright protection mechanisms such as DRM, keys, or the publisher’s authentication system, allowing users to use the software without paying. Therefore, in essence, the act of cracking directly invalidates copyright protection measures and can be considered a copyright infringement under the law.

Not only does cracking games constitute copyright infringement, but downloading and using cracked games also involves violations. Even if users don’t directly crack the game, downloading a cracked version means they are using a modified version of the software, exploiting the copyrighted work without permission, and contributing to the spread of infringing copies on the internet. Therefore, in essence, downloading cracked games is still considered copyright infringement, although the level of liability may be lower than for cracking or distributing them.

In short, based on legal regulations and the nature of the act, it can be affirmed that cracking games is a copyright infringement, and downloading and using cracked games is illegal and poses legal risks to users.

The above is an article titled ” Is downloading cracked games for free a copyright violation?”. Hopefully, the above information helps you understand the legal regulations and consider using games legally to avoid unnecessary risks.

Sincerely,

FAQ

1. Is cracking games considered a violation of the law?

Yes. Cracking games disables the copyright protection mechanism of the publisher, and is therefore considered a copyright infringement according to the law.

2. Is downloading cracked games for personal use a violation?

Even without distributing them, downloading and using cracked games is still using unlicensed software, and therefore is essentially a violation.

The legal nature of “creativity” in copyright

Written by Editor VCD on 12 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Copyright Registration, Copyright-related rights. No Comments on The legal nature of “creativity” in copyright

In today’s reality, the creation and exploitation of works is increasingly common, from writing articles and designing images to developing software or digital content. However, not everyone understands what constitutes “creativity” from a legal perspective, leading to many misunderstandings, such as believing that simply having a new idea or modifying existing content is sufficient to be considered creative. So, “What is the legal nature of “creativity” in copyright?”, this VCD article will help you.

How is “creativity” understood in copyright?

According to Clause 1, Article 14 and Clause 1, Article 6 of the Vietnamese Intellectual Property Law, copyright arises for literary, artistic, and scientific works from the moment the work is created and expressed in a certain physical form, regardless of registration or publication. This regulation shows that “creativity” is a legal condition linked to the formation of a work.

From a legal perspective, “creativity” is understood as the independent intellectual labor process of the author to create a specific work, not merely the arising of ideas in thought. A work is considered to have creative elements when it meets the following criteria:

It is the direct intellectual activity of the author: the work must be the result of the author’s thinking, choices, and expression, not a copy of an existing work.

It is expressed in a certain tangible form: for example, written text, painted pictures, recorded music, designed as a graphic file, programmed as software source code… Only when the work has been expressed externally is it recognized by law as an object of protection.

Bearing the personal imprint of the creator: this personal imprint is expressed through the author’s choice of content, presentation, arrangement, or unique way of expression.

The legal nature of “creativity” in copyright

According to Clause 1, Article 6 of the Vietnamese Intellectual Property Law, copyright arises when a work is created and expressed in a certain tangible form. This regulation shows that the element of “creativity” is not only a characteristic of the work but also a prerequisite for the formation of copyright.

In addition, the law also clearly stipulates that certain objects are not protected by copyright, including non-creative content such as purely factual news, legal documents, processes, systems, operating methods, or mere data. These objects are primarily informational or general in nature, lacking the personal imprint of the creator, and therefore are not considered works in the legal sense.

Considering “creativity” as a core condition also helps distinguish between legitimate creative acts and unauthorized copying. In practice, many copyright disputes arise from an individual or organization using another’s work and claiming to have “modified” or “re-edited” it. However, if such modification does not create new content with a unique imprint but only minor changes in form or wording, it can still be considered copying and copyright infringement.

Another important aspect is that the creative element does not depend on the artistic or commercial value of the work. A simple work, without significant economic value, can still be protected if it is created independently. Conversely, a product with high commercial value but copied from another person’s work is still not considered to have creative elements according to the law.

The practical significance of understanding the true nature of “creativity”

Understanding the legal nature of “creativity” is crucial in accurately determining who is the legitimate author of a work. According to the Vietnamese Intellectual Property Law, the author is the person who directly creates the work. Therefore, in practice, not everyone involved in the creation of a work is considered the author. The person who directly creates the specific content of the work is usually identified as the author, while those who only offer suggestions, technical support, or provide general ideas are generally not considered authors unless they directly participate in expressing the content.

Furthermore, understanding the true nature of “creativity” helps to limit the risk of copyright infringement when using another person’s work. In practice, many believe that simply changing a few minor details or modifying the form is enough to create a new work. However, if the core content of the work remains unchanged, this act can still be considered unauthorized copying. Therefore, a proper understanding of creative elements helps individuals and organizations be more cautious when exploiting, modifying, or reusing the work of others.

Furthermore, a proper understanding of the nature of “creativity” also helps improve the effectiveness of copyright registration and protection. When carrying out the registration procedure, clearly demonstrating the creation process of the work and the author’s unique mark will create a favorable basis for reviewing the application, and at the same time help protect the author’s rights in case of disputes. Simultaneously, a correct understanding of the creative element also contributes to building a healthy creative environment, encouraging respect for and protection of the value of intellectual labor in society.

The above is the article “The legal nature of “creativity” in copyright” that VCD has sent to you. We hope this article is useful to you.

Sincerely,

FAQ

Question 1: Can only a new idea be considered “creative” to be protected by copyright?

No. According to the Vietnamese Intellectual Property Law, a purely creative idea is not protected by copyright. Only when an idea is expressed as a concrete work in a specific physical form is it considered the result of creative activity and can be protected.

Question 2: Is modifying someone else’s work considered a new creation?

Not every modification is considered a new creation. If the modifications are minor, do not create new content with a unique mark, and still retain the core content of the original work, it can still be considered plagiarism and may infringe on copyright.