Protecting digital rights  means protecting the ability of individuals and communities to participate in modern life – from accessing education and innovation, to free expression, privacy, and protection from online harassment. Digital rights also ensure that power doesn’t tilt disproportionately toward government and corporate actors, leaving everyone else at risk of abuse.

The field of digital rights is a rapidly growing one, as human rights bodies and academics debate how to adapt traditional fundamental freedoms for the online environment. But the impact of a lack of robust digital rights frameworks goes beyond just debating how these freedoms can be applied to new technologies. The consequences are real and devastating. Politicians use technology to censor and silence the voices of their opponents, journalists are hacked, and dissidents face heightened surveillance and online harassment.

Protecting Digital Rights in a Hyper-Connected World

Tech companies collect and sell personal information with permissions – usually written in small print on their terms of service – that allow them to do so. This is why it’s important to read the fine print and limit permissions.

When creating media, consider registering important copyrights with your country’s copyright office. Registration shifts the burden to anyone who misuses your work, and can entitle you to money damages. Using tools to protect your privacy, mark your creations as yours (like your name or logo), and create a watermark will also help. A legal advisor can help you find the best combination of tech tools and legal advice to protect your work.