This document provides an overview of copyright law, including what can and cannot be copyrighted, fair use exceptions, and penalties for infringement. Copyright protects original creative works fixed in a tangible form, including photos, stories, illustrations and more. Facts, government works, and expired copyrights are not covered. While copyright protects works online, fair use allows limited use for news or education without permission. Courts weigh four factors to determine fair use, most importantly the economic impact. Ignorance is not a defense against infringement charges, which can be civil or criminal for large-scale copying.