How UK copyright works: what it protects, how long it lasts, who owns it, fair dealing exceptions, using images and music on social media, Creative Commons, and what to do if your work is copied.
Copyright protects original creative work, from writing and photos to music, films and software. In the UK, it arises automatically: there is no registration system. Knowing the basics helps you protect your own work and avoid infringing other people's, including on social media.
What copyright protects?
- original literary works, including books, articles, blog posts and computer code;
- dramatic, musical and artistic works, including photos, drawings, paintings and illustrations;
- sound recordings, films and broadcasts;
- the typographical layout of published editions.
Copyright protects the expression of an idea, not the idea itself. Names, titles and slogans are usually too short for copyright, though they may be protected as trade marks.
How long it lasts?
- Written, dramatic, musical and artistic works: the creator's life plus 70 years.
- Sound recordings: generally 70 years from publication.
- Films: 70 years after the death of the last of the principal director, authors and composer.
- Broadcasts: 50 years.
- Typographical arrangement: 25 years.
Who owns it?
The creator usually owns copyright, but work created by an employee in the course of their job is normally owned by the employer. Freelancers usually keep copyright unless the contract transfers it. If you commission work, agree in writing who owns it or what licence you get.
What owners can control?
Copyright owners have the exclusive right to copy, distribute, rent or lend, perform, communicate to the public (including online) and adapt the work. Using a substantial part of a work without permission can infringe, even if you credit the creator.
Exceptions: fair dealing
The UK doesn't have a broad US-style "fair use". Instead, specific "fair dealing" exceptions allow limited use, such as:
- criticism, review and quotation, with sufficient acknowledgement;
- reporting current events (but not using photographs);
- parody, caricature and pastiche;
- non-commercial research and private study;
- illustration for teaching;
- accessible copies for people with disabilities.
Fair dealing is judged by factors such as how much is used and whether it competes with the original.
Using images on social media
- Images found online are usually protected. Don't assume "it's on Google" means free to use.
- Use your own photos, licensed stock images, or images under suitable Creative Commons licences.
- Sharing using a platform's built-in share or repost tools is generally covered by the platform's terms; downloading and re-uploading isn't.
- Crediting the creator doesn't replace permission.
- Photos of people can raise privacy issues as well as copyright.
Using music in videos
- Major platforms have licences with music rights holders for some uses on their services. Use the platform's music library where possible.
- Business accounts often have more restricted music libraries, as commercial use needs different licences.
- Using music outside the platform's library, or in videos used elsewhere, usually needs a licence.
- Royalty-free music libraries offer licences for content creators; read the terms.
Creative Commons
Creative Commons licences let creators allow certain uses. Check the conditions: "BY" requires attribution, "NC" means non-commercial only, "ND" means no adaptations, and "SA" means adaptations must be shared on the same terms.
Protecting your own work
- Keep dated drafts and original files as evidence.
- Add a copyright notice (© name, year). It isn't required, but it reminds people.
- Use watermarks or lower-resolution images online if you're concerned.
If your work is copied
- Collect evidence: screenshots, URLs and dates.
- Contact the person and ask them to remove it or agree a licence fee.
- Use the platform's copyright reporting process.
- For larger disputes, consider the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court's small claims track (for claims up to £10,000) or legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use 10 seconds of a song?
There is no "safe" number of seconds. Use of any recognisable part can infringe.
Are memes legal?
Many may fall within parody or pastiche, but it depends on how much is used and how.
Sources and further reading
- GOV.UK: Copyright
- GOV.UK: Exceptions to copyright
- Creative Commons: About the licences
- GOV.UK: Intellectual Property Enterprise Court
Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.