Your rights in the metaverse: The benefits and challenges of collaborating in the digital age

Collective creativity and shared ownership of content in the metaverse raise considerations regarding fair use, credit and compensation for creative contributions.

The inception of the metaverse has revolutionized the way we connect, communicate, build and conduct business. Providing new avenues for creators and brands to co-create and reach global audiences, the metaverse has found a home in the fashion, arts and entertainment industries. 

Success stories in the metaverse include ABBA’s groundbreaking avatar show in London, which achieved an impressive 380,000 ticket sales within the initial couple of months. On the other hand, Decentraland’s Metaverse Fashion Week and Metaverse Art Weekhave also proved to be triumphant ventures. However, the metaverse isn’t just a creative paradise; it’s a battleground for intellectual property (IP) rights. Consider Nike’s recent encounter — the sportswear giant filed a lawsuit against a virtual sneaker company selling Nike-styled shoes as non-fungible tokens (NFTs). It’s a prime example of how the lines between physical and virtual IP rights can blur. 

The metaverse thrives on digital assets, including personalized avatars, virtual goods, real estate, experiences and services. These assets hold tremendous value in the digital world, as seen with Beeple’s Human One and Everydays: The First 5000 Days, which combined, sold for nearly $170 million. Creators and users can own, trade and monetize these digital assets. However, it poses new questions — to what extent do ownership and IP laws apply in this context? How can we protect and enforce IP in the digital world while fostering creativity? 

While the metaverse encourages user-generated content and synergetic creation, it complicates traditional copyright structures. Collective creativity and shared ownership of content in the metaverse raise considerations regarding fair use, credit and compensation for creative contributions. For instance, the controversial Hermès lawsuit over the MetaBirkin NFTs was a victory for the luxury brand, but the judgment put into question the rights and creativity of digital artists in the metaverse. 

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The collaborative nature of the metaverse can fuel a remix culture where users build off others’ work to create unique experiences. However, this also introduces the potential for infringing upon intellectual property rights. To navigate these complexities, creators and brands should consider a few key strategies before diving into the metaverse. 

First, ensure your IP is protected by registering your trademarks, copyrights and patents, which provides legal protection for your creations and content. Consulting with an IP attorney familiar with the metaverse can be incredibly beneficial.

Secondly, familiarize yourself with the community guidelines, terms of services and IP procedures of various platforms. They differ greatly, from Facebook’s Horizon to Roblox, Decentraland and Cryptovoxels. Staying compliant with these policies not only helps avoid friction but sets a precedent for ethical behavior within the space. 

Next, consider utilizing blockchain-based solutions for IP protection. Watermarking digital art, encrypting files and using blockchain technology for proof of ownership can be beneficial. NFTs, for instance, offer a method for artists to sell their work directly and retain more control and profits. 

When collaborating, consider implementing licensing and partnership agreements using smart contracts. Clear communication on terms and conditions can ensure appropriate compensation while maintaining control over your content. 

Lastly, stay vigilant about legal developments in the metaverse. As seen with the EU’s proposal for a Digital Services Act (DSA) and a Digital Markets Act (DMA), regulatory standards may directly impact the way metaverse platforms operate, affecting your IP rights.

The metaverse is indeed a paradigm shift in understanding and regulating IP. As boundaries between the digital and physical world blur, traditional frameworks face unprecedented challenges. Addressing issues around user-generated content, trademark protection, digital assets, licensing models and control is vital for shaping the metaverse into an equitable and vibrant digital future.

The information provided here is not legal advice and does not purport to be a substitute for advice of counsel on any specific matter. For legal advice, you should consult with an attorney concerning your specific situation.

Collective creativity and shared ownership of content in the metaverse raise considerations regarding fair use, credit and compensation for creative contributions.

This article was published through Cointelegraph Innovation Circle, a vetted organization of senior executives and experts in the blockchain technology industry who are building the future through the power of connections, collaboration and thought leadership. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Cointelegraph.

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