What are the four types of Intellectual Property and how do you protect them?

Intellectual property (IP) refers to the creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, symbols, names, images, and designs used in commerce. There are four main types of intellectual property: patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. 

Patents: protect inventions and discoveries, such as new products or processes, for a certain period of time. Once a patent is granted, the inventor has the exclusive right to make, use, and sell the invention.

Trademarks: protect brands, logos, and other symbols that distinguish a business or product from its competitors. Once a trademark is granted, the business has the exclusive right to use the trademark in connection with its goods or services.

Copyrights: protect literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, such as books, songs, and paintings. Once a copyright is granted, the author has the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, and display the work.

Trade secrets: protect confidential information, such as recipes, formulas, and processes, that give a business a competitive advantage. In order to protect a trade secret, a business must keep the information confidential.

HOW TO PROTECT THEM?

For global IPR protection, the first step is to register them with the government. After registration, it's crucial to monitor use of the IP to ensure no one is infringing on it. Additionally, it's important to keep IP protected by having non-disclosure agreements with employees and partners, and marking confidential information as such. Having legal consultants like Knowledgentia Consultants, which is the best NRI legal firm in India, is also a good idea to help navigate legal proceedings and advise on potential infringement.