Author: Editor VCD

Is it illegal to translate a book and post it on a personal blog?

Written by Editor VCD on 2 June, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Copyright Registration, Written works. No Comments on Is it illegal to translate a book and post it on a personal blog?

Many people think that translating books and posting them on a blog is a “good deed,” helping to spread knowledge. However, from a legal perspective, this behavior can lead to penalties. In this article, let’s explore whether translating books and posting them on a personal blog is punishable!

What is translating books and posting them on a personal blog?

Translating books and posting them on a personal blog is the act of translating the content of a book from its original language into Vietnamese (or vice versa). Then, posting all or part of the translated content on a blog, website, or personal platform. Legally, this is not simply “rewriting content,” but is considered creating a derivative work.

According to Clause 8, Article 4 of the 2022 Intellectual Property Law: “A derivative work is a work created on the basis of one or more existing works through translation from one language to another, adaptation, compilation, annotation, selection, modification, musical adaptation, and other adaptations.”

This means that the translation is entirely dependent on the original work; the translator does not have full rights to use it without permission. Furthermore, when you post content on a blog, this act is considered communicating the work to the public, an exclusive right of the copyright owner.

Is it illegal to translate a book and post it on a personal blog?

Translating a book and posting it on a personal blog is not just sharing content; it is essentially an act of exploiting the right to create a derivative work and communicating the work to the public according to Vietnamese Intellectual Property Law. Therefore, whether or not you are penalized does not depend on whether you make money from it, but on the protection status of the original work. If the book’s copyright is still valid, self-translating and publishing it without permission may be considered a violation. Conversely, if the work’s protection has expired, you can use it legally, but you still need to respect the author’s moral rights.

Case 1: The translated book is still under copyright protection

According to the law, copyright arises as soon as the work is created and expressed in a certain physical form, regardless of whether it has been registered or not. At the same time, one of the important property rights of the owner is the right to create derivative works, which includes translation.

This means that when you translate a book yourself, you are creating a derivative work based on the original work. However, the right to perform this act does not belong to the translator, but to the author or copyright owner. According to Clause 1, Article 20 of the 2022 Intellectual Property Law, property rights include “creating derivative works”. Therefore, if you translate a copyrighted book, post all or most of its content on your personal blog without permission or paying royalties to the author, this act is considered copyright infringement and may be subject to penalties.

Note that even if you post the translated book on your personal blog without earning money from it, placing advertisements, or simply sharing it for free, this does not change the nature of the infringement.

Case 2: The copyright protection period for the translated book has expired.

According to Vietnamese Intellectual Property Law, property rights to a work have a specific protection period throughout the author’s lifetime and 50 years after the author’s death, or 75 years from the date of publication for anonymous works. After this period, the work becomes public domain.

In that case, you have the full right to translate the work, post it on your blog, and use it for personal or commercial purposes without needing permission or paying royalties. However, the law still requires you to respect the author’s personal rights, including:

Clearly stating the author’s name

Not altering or distorting the content

Not misrepresenting the spirit of the work…

If you violate these elements, you may still be penalized even if the work’s protection period has expired.

Therefore, translating a book and posting it on a personal blog may or may not result in penalties, depending on whether the work’s protection period has expired or not. This is an important legal boundary that content creators need to understand to avoid unnecessary violations.

Penalties for translating books and posting them on personal blogs

In cases where the author or copyright owner (including publishers who have purchased the copyright in Vietnam) discovers unauthorized translation and posting of books on blogs, the violator may face various penalties according to the law.

According to Decree 28/2017/ND-CP, creating derivative works without permission can result in administrative penalties. Specifically:

A fine of VND 5,000,000 to VND 10,000,000

The removal of all infringing content in electronic form from blogs, websites, or online platforms

This is a common penalty applied to first-time or small-scale violations by individuals.

In addition to administrative penalties, the author or copyright owner has the right to file a civil lawsuit to protect their rights. In that case, the infringer may be required to remove the infringing copy from the internet, publicly apologize, issue a correction, and compensate the author or copyright owner for damages. Compensation may include actual damages, lost profits, or costs related to handling the infringement.

The above is an article titled ” Is it illegal to translate a book and post it on a personal blog?”. Hopefully, this information will help you understand the legal regulations and guide you in creating safe, legal content, avoiding unnecessary risks in the development of your personal blog.

Sincerely,

Câu hỏi thường gặp

1. When is it legal to translate a book and post it on a blog?

You can legally post it when you have the permission of the copyright owner, or when the work’s protection period has expired. However, you still need to clearly state the author’s name and not distort the content.

2. Is it permissible to post a translation if the source and author’s name are clearly stated?

No. Attribution is only an obligation when using a work legally; it does not replace permission. Without the owner’s consent, you may still be considered to be infringing.

Can copyright ownership be changed after registration?

Written by Editor VCD on 2 June, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Copyright exploitation cooperation services, Copyright Registration, Copyright-related rights. No Comments on Can copyright ownership be changed after registration?

During the exploitation and use of a work, copyright ownership is often transferred from one person to another due to assignment, inheritance, or changes in business legal status. This leads many to wonder whether, after copyright registration, ownership can still be changed and whether such a change affects the validity of the work’s protection. This article from VCD will help you.

Copyright law regulations regarding ownership

Many people understand that whoever creates the work is automatically the copyright owner. However, in reality, copyright law is not that simple. According to the Vietnamese Intellectual Property Law, “author” and “copyright owner” are two completely different concepts.

An author is the person who directly creates the work through their own efforts and ideas. Meanwhile, the copyright owner is the person or organization that holds the property rights to the work. Therefore, there are many cases where the person named as the copyright owner is not the person who directly created the work.

Besides the author who directly created the work, the law also allows many other entities to become copyright owners, such as copyright transferees, heirs, or organizations receiving transferred rights. This shows that ownership of a work can change during its exploitation and use.

Can copyright ownership be changed after registration?

In practice, changes in copyright ownership are quite common, especially when the work begins to be commercially exploited or transferred to others for use. According to Vietnam’s Intellectual Property Law, property rights to a work can be legally transferred to another organization or individual. At that point, the new owner can proceed with the registration procedure to change the owner’s information on the Copyright Registration Certificate.

Common cases include:

Transfer of Copyright:

This is the most common case. The current owner transfers ownership of the work to another individual or organization through a written transfer contract. For example, a company resells software copyrights to another business or an individual transfers a brand design set to a business partner. After the transfer is completed, the transferee becomes the new owner of the work.

Inheritance of Copyright:

According to the law, property rights belonging to an author can be inherited. When the owner dies, the legal heir will have the right to receive ownership of the work. In this case, the heir can update the owner’s information to facilitate the management and exploitation of the work in the future.

Gifting of Copyright:

Besides buying, selling, or transferring, copyright owners can also gift their copyright to others. For example, an individual may gift the ownership of a set of design artworks to a business or relative. The gift should be clearly documented to serve as the basis for the ownership change procedure at the registration authority.

Cases of changes in legal information for businesses:

Many businesses, after changing their company name, merging, splitting, or changing their type of operation, also need to update the copyright owner’s information. In this case, even if the work itself remains unchanged, the owner’s legal information is different, so it needs to be adjusted on the Certificate to ensure consistency in the records.

Cases of Changes Based on Judgments or Decisions of Competent Authorities:

Some cases involve disputes over copyright ownership of works. After a legally binding judgment or decision determines who the legal owner is, the person recognized as the owner can request the registration authority to update the owner information according to the judgment.

It can be seen that changing copyright ownership is not a particularly unusual procedure, but a very practical need in the process of using and exploiting the work. However, for the change to be legally recognized, the parties need to have complete documentation proving the basis for the transfer of rights, appropriate to each specific case.

Does changing ownership change the validity of copyright?

Many people worry that when ownership changes, the previously registered copyright will become invalid or require re-registration from scratch. However, this is an inaccurate understanding.

In principle, changing ownership does not invalidate copyright protection. The work continues to be protected by law for the original protection period; the only difference is that the person holding the intellectual property rights to the work has changed.

For example, if a business transfers the copyright of its software to another company, that software remains protected as before. The change only concerns the owner and does not create a new copyright or invalidate the registered copyright.

n addition, the law also protects the personal rights of the author even after ownership has been transferred. This means that the person who directly created the work still has the right to have their name credited as the author or to have the integrity of the work protected according to the law.

However, the change of ownership is only recognized when there is a legitimate basis for the transfer of rights. If the transfer documents are forged, disputed, or contain false information, the competent authority may still consider adjusting or canceling the registration information. Therefore, when carrying out the procedure to change the copyright owner, the parties need to prepare complete supporting documents to minimize legal risks later on.

The above is the article “Can the owner be changed after copyright registration?” that VCD has sent to you. We hope this article is useful to you.

Sincerely,

FAQ

1. After copyright registration, can it be transferred to another person’s name?

Yes. 1. Copyright ownership can be changed in cases such as transfer, inheritance, gift, or legal changes in a business, provided there is a legitimate basis and the correct procedures are followed.

2. Does changing ownership invalidate the copyright?

No. Changing ownership only changes the holder of the rights to the work; the copyright protection remains valid for the previously registered period.

How does a tech startup company register copyright?

Written by Editor VCD on 27 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Computer program and data compilation, Copyright Registration. No Comments on How does a tech startup company register copyright?

During the startup phase, many tech companies often focus on fundraising, product development, and market expansion, neglecting the protection of intellectual property. So, how should a tech startup register for copyright? Which intellectual property should be protected from the outset? This article from VCD will help businesses understand this.

What is Copyright?

According to Vietnamese Intellectual Property Law, copyright is the right of an organization or individual to a work they directly create or legally own.

For tech startups, copyright often arises for many important types of intellectual property such as computer software, source code, website interfaces, mobile applications, technical documentation, product introduction videos, marketing content, graphic design, or databases built by the business during its operation.

Many startups today still confuse copyright registration with trademark or patent registration. In reality, these are three completely different forms of protection. Copyright protects creative works, while trademarks protect brand names, logos, or identifying marks in business operations. Meanwhile, patents focus on protecting new, applicable technical solutions.

Therefore, a technology company often needs to combine multiple forms of intellectual property protection to create a comprehensive “legal barrier” for its products.

Is copyright registration mandatory for technology startups?

According to current law, copyright arises as soon as a work is created and expressed in a tangible form, regardless of the registration procedure. This means that as soon as a startup completes its software, interface design, or technical documentation, copyright is, in principle, established.

However, not registering copyright carries many legal risks in practice.

Legal basis in disputes: A copyright registration certificate is strong evidence to prove who is the legal owner in case of disputes over copying code, interface, or content.

Increased startup value during fundraising: Investors often value startups with clear intellectual property. A copyrighted software system makes the business more professional and trustworthy.

Reduced risk of copyright infringement: In many cases, former employees or partners register source code beforehand, causing serious legal risks for the business.

Easier handling of infringement: With a copyright certificate, startups can more easily request the removal of infringing content, file complaints against the digital platform, initiate lawsuits, and seek compensation for damages.

How should a tech startup register for copyright?

For tech startups, intellectual property isn’t just about the idea; it encompasses the entire product system, content, and data the business creates during operation. Below are the types of assets that tech startups should register for copyright as soon as possible.

Computer software and source code

This is the most important asset for most tech startups today. Under Vietnamese law, computer programs are protected as literary works. This means that source code, software, or operating systems can all be copyrighted.

Startups should prioritize copyright registration for products such as mobile applications, web apps, SaaS platforms, ERP systems, CRM systems, or AI platforms developed in-house. Early protection will help limit the risk of copying or ownership disputes during business expansion.

Website and application interfaces

Many businesses focus solely on protecting their source code, neglecting the product interface. In reality, UI/UX can be protected as applied art or graphic design.

This is a crucial legal basis for startups to address cases where competitors copy the layout, design style, or display experience of their application.

Digital content and marketing materials

For technology startups, digital content is also a valuable form of intellectual property. Blog posts, promotional videos, infographics, ebooks, training materials, or media content can all be copyrighted if they meet the legal protection requirements.

In today’s highly competitive SEO and marketing landscape, protecting content helps businesses reduce the risk of having their articles copied or their media resources used illegally.

Technical documents and operating procedures

Documents such as whitepapers, pitch decks, operating manuals, system diagrams, or internal technology processes should also be registered for protection if they contain creative content and have commercial value. These are often crucial documents in the fundraising process or strategic partnerships with partners.

What does a copyright registration application for a tech startup include?

Typically, a copyright registration application will include:

Copy of the work: For computer software, businesses usually need to prepare a printed copy of the source code, interface images, or documentation describing the system’s functionality. For design works or digital content, startups can submit design files, images, or related documents.

Declaration: Confirming that the work was created by the business itself.

Business legal documents: Including business registration certificate and the representative’s ID card.

Work assignment or transfer contract: If the work was created by an employee, a freelancer, or a design agency, proof of ownership by the company is required.

What risks do tech startups face if they don’t register copyrights?

Failing to register copyrights from the outset can expose businesses to numerous legal risks, directly impacting their operations, fundraising capabilities, and ownership of their developed products. Below are some common risks tech startups face if they lack a proper copyright protection strategy.

Employees taking source code elsewhere: This is one of the most common risks in the tech industry. If a company lacks clear intellectual property clauses in employment contracts or doesn’t register software copyrights, proving ownership of the source code becomes very difficult when employees leave.

Competitors copying the product: Many startups discover their applications are being cloned, features copied, or content copied, but they cannot effectively address the issue due to a lack of legal evidence. In this case, a copyright certificate will provide the business with a basis to request the removal of infringing content, file complaints on digital platforms, or initiate legal action for damages.

Difficulties in fundraising: Investment funds today often conduct thorough checks on intellectual property rights before deciding to invest. A startup without a clear IP profile is often considered to have high legal risk, especially if its core product is not protected. Conversely, a business with a complete copyright system will build greater trust with investors and strategic partners.

The above is an article titled “How should a technology startup company register its copyright?”. Hopefully, the above information will help businesses understand the importance of protecting intellectual property, thereby proactively building a solid legal foundation for sustainable development and minimizing risks in operation, fundraising, and market expansion.

Sincerely,

FAQ

1. Which assets should a technology startup company register copyright for first?

Startups should prioritize registering core assets such as computer software, source code, website/app interfaces, technical documentation, product introduction videos, and marketing content. These are often assets with high commercial value and are easily copied in the technology field.

2. How long does it take to register copyright for software?

Typically, the time to issue a copyright registration certificate ranges from 15 to 30 working days, depending on the application and the processing agency. If the application is incomplete or contains incorrect information, the time may be longer.

Is a watermark sufficient proof of ownership?

Written by Editor VCD on 27 May, 2026. Posted in Announcement, Copyright Registration, Copyright-related rights. No Comments on Is a watermark sufficient proof of ownership?

In the era of rapidly developing digital content, watermarks are commonly used on images, documents, PDF files, videos, etc., to prevent unauthorized copying. However, a crucial question arises: are watermarks sufficient to prove legal ownership of a work? This article “Is a watermark sufficient proof of ownership” will analyze this in detail from both a legal and practical perspective.

What is a Watermark?

A watermark is a type of identifying symbol directly embedded into digital content such as images, videos, PDF documents, or other digital publications. Watermarks can exist in the form of letters, logos, symbols, or faint character strings, usually placed in a fixed position or lightly covering the entire content.

The main purpose of a watermark is to help identify the source of content and support the protection of intellectual property rights in the digital environment, where copying and sharing are very easy. Watermarks are commonly used in many creative and digital content business fields, primarily for the following purposes:

Identifying content owner: This makes it easy for viewers to recognize who created or owns the original content.

Restricting unauthorized copying: When content has a watermark, its reuse is often restricted or difficult to exploit commercially.

Increasing brand recognition: A logo or brand name with a watermark increases visibility and memorability in the viewer’s mind.

Protecting digital assets: This provides an initial layer of protection for images, documents, or videos against the risk of re-uploading or content theft.

In practice, watermarks are very common on digital platforms and creative content, especially:

Design and commercial images: product photos, advertising images, social media images

Digital documents (PDFs, ebooks): textbooks, study materials, e-books

Videos and multimedia content: YouTube videos, TikTok videos, online courses

Digital marketing content: advertising banners, media publications, landing pages

In many cases, watermarks are also designed to be “hidden” or “faded” so as not to affect the viewer’s experience while still ensuring recognition.

Is a watermark sufficient proof of ownership?

In practice, a watermark can be considered supporting evidence to prove ownership of content, especially in copyright disputes. However, a watermark is not absolute legal proof and is not strong enough to establish ownership on its own.

Watermarks are often valuable for identifying the source of content when they meet the following criteria:

The watermark is directly associated with the name of an individual, brand, or business.

The content was published earlier than the party in dispute.

The content publishing system is consistent and synchronized (website, fan page, data repository, etc.).

In these cases, the watermark helps to increase the likelihood of inferring the original owner of the content.

In disputes, watermarks are often considered by authorities or courts as supporting evidence to help determine the original source of a work, serving as a basis for presuming temporary ownership. They also aid in the overall assessment of evidence in a case. However, watermarks are only one part of the evidence system, not the sole determining factor.

Watermarks still have several limitations that prevent them from becoming independent legal evidence:

They can be easily cut, edited, or erased using technical tools.

They can be copied and reattached to content not owned by the owner.

They do not prove the time of creation of the work.

They do not demonstrate the creative process or the original file.

Therefore, watermarks do not guarantee comprehensiveness in determining ownership when disputes arise.

If watermarks are used solely as proof of ownership, creators may face risks such as:

Difficulty proving original creation of the content

Disclaimer of ownership by other parties using other technical evidence

Insufficient legal grounds to claim infringement or compensation

Watermarks play an important role in identifying and protecting digital content, but they only serve as a supporting element in proving ownership. To fully and securely protect rights, watermarks should be combined with other evidence such as original files, creation history, publication dates, and related authentication documents.

How to protect ownership more effectively?

To increase the legal protection of digital content, owners should not rely on a single measure but should build a comprehensive and multi-layered protection system. Combining various tools and methods will help increase the ability to prove ownership and minimize the risk of unauthorized copying.

Registering copyright with the competent authority

Preserving original files and creation history

Using watermarks combined with metadata

Publishing content on platforms with timestamps

Applying anti-copying tools (DRM, download restrictions)

Among the above measures, copyright registration is still considered the strongest legal option, as it is an important basis for owners to clearly prove their rights to the work, especially in cases of disputes or intellectual property infringement.

The above is an article titled ” Is a watermark sufficient proof of ownership?”. To ensure full and solid protection of rights, it is necessary to combine watermarks with other important evidence such as original files, content creation time, and publication process.

Sincerely,

FAQ

1. What is the most important measure to protect copyright?

Registering copyright with the competent authority is the most important measure, as it provides clear legal grounds to prove ownership in case of disputes.

2. How can we reduce the risk of content being copied on the internet?

In addition to watermarks, we need to combine measures such as saving original files, using anti-copying technology (DRM), publishing content with timestamps, and registering copyright to protect content more effectively.

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.