Blockchain Technology as a Tool for Copyright Protection

Abstract

Stady of blockchain technology is one of the most topical issues among scholars and among specialists of different fields, which is due to the consolidation of blockchain as one of the digital technologies of the National Program. The purpose of the study is to substantiate the expediency of using blockchain technology as a tool for copyright protection. The paper uses a systematic approach, dialectical method, methods of analogy, generalization, induction. Analysis of theoretical and doctrinal foundations and practice of blockchain technology application allowed the author to come to the conclusion about the significant potential of its use in the field of intellectual property in Russia. The author focuses on the advantages and main problems of this technology as a tool of copyright protection at the present stage. Although there is no statutory need to register works, in practice authors often have to prove their authorship, which is not always easy. In the era of the Internet and the development of the digital economy, it is getting more difficult to control the use of works and the payment of royalties and remuniration. The introduction of blockchain in the field of intellectual property will allow the authors to confirm the authorship, to dispose of copyright and control its use, to receive remuneration for the use of works. A reliable and secure technology enables authors, rights holders and consumers to interact openly, transparently, without intermediaries, to minimize time and financial costs, to protect copyright. One of the most significant problems is the lack of legislative consolidation of blockchain technology in Russia. The author comes to the conclusion that the blockchain technology creates a new and simpler tool for confirmation of authorship, management and control over the use of works, which does not replace the existing system of copyright protection, but complements it.