karen_page's blog

Plagiarism and Copyright

Plagiarism and Copyright

As an author, one thing I would hate, and so would probably everyone else who writes on here, is someone copying your work. Indeed, I remember before there was a discussion regarding this June 2008.

However, one thing that I've noticed recently is that some people don't seem to think this applies to images. Some people have been good and if they use something under "fair use" they do then acknowledge the copyright owner. Heck, I am aware of one author who went as far as licencing the images they used.

Some people though don't appear to even be abiding by the "fair use" rule, and using complete pictures from other people's websites. Like people on this site spend a lot of time writing stories, some people have spent a lot of time creating images. I personally feel it is double standards to get upset if someone copies somebody elses writing, but then copy other person's imagery work. And to top it all off, even if they thought it was covered under "fair use", there is no acknowledgement of the image owner.

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Phone Numbers in stories

Certain countries set aside phone numbers for fictional use.

For the UK, OFCOM (UK regulator) have information here. See http://www.ofcom.org.uk/telecoms/ioi/numbers/num_drama

Only 555-0100 to 555-0199 are now reserved, though other 555 numbers are used in some films and tv shows. Reference: section 4.6 of http://www.atis.org/inc/docs/finaldocs/555-NXX-Assignment-Gu...

Australia has a series of set numbers reserved: http://www.acma.gov.au/WEB/STANDARD/pc=PC_2330

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Meaning of words cause confusion

Even though Britain and America both speak the same language, the different usage of words can sometimes cause confusion. One that came to my attention this week is the word jumper.

In UK English, a jumper is a sweater. A thick garment that is worn to keep the body warm. In American English, a jumper is a pinafore dress. A dress without sleeves and collar that is worn over a top or blouse.

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