Module 5: Citing Information

Copyright Infringement or Plagiarism - What's the Difference?

The word plagiarism comes from a Latin word meaning kidnapper, now used in the sense of a literary thief. Plagiarism is using someone else's work without giving proper credit. Plagiarism is considered an ethical issue and is enforced by schools and colleges. Although plagiarism is not covered in federal laws, it can be grounds for legal action. You can avoid plagiarism by always citing the source of any material you use that is not your own.

Copyright infringement is also using someone else's creative work, which can include books, articles, songs, videos, movie clips, visual art, photographs, or other creative work, without permission or compensation. Copyright infringement is governed by federal law and is enforced by the courts. You can avoid copyright infringement by getting permission from the copyright holder to use their material.