Non-Fungible Tokens and Intellectual Property Rights: Can the use of NTFs lead to IP infringements?

13 February 2024|PUBLICATION
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This flyer describes the growing use of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) in the art world. These unique identifiers recorded on blockchain are used to verify the ownership and authenticity of a work of art. While the use of NFTs by artists is increasing, so is the risk of criminal actions related with them. One example of such abuse is converting artwork to NFT and selling it without the artist's authorisation.

This flyer investigates whether the NFT purchaser can obtain any rights to the underlying artwork and how the use of NFTs may breach copyright protection. NFTs can also exploit famous brands' trademarks to improve their market value. The flyer examines the consequences for copyright and trademark protection and provides an outline of recent court decisions influencing this field, which still lacks a legal regulatory framework.

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Publication Details

ISBN
978-92-9404-226-2
DOI
10.2812/241003
Catalog number
QP-02-24-216-EN-N