Intellectual Property Protection in the Software Industry: A Systematic Review
Abstract
The protection of intellectual property in the software industry, particularly copyright, is increasingly crucial. This paper delves into the legal and technical challenges of safeguarding software, highlighting the ambiguity in its classification as a good or service, the reuse of protected code, and the lack of international legal harmonization. Through a systematic review of 28 scholarly articles using the PRISMA methodology and databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, three key categories were identified: Copyright (100%), Patent (46%), and Trade Secret (4%). Bibliometric analysis reveals a surge in the study of software copyright since 2019, though without significant advancements in 2022 and 2023, indicating a research gap. In Latin America, Brazil and Colombia stand out in this field, while other countries like Peru focus more on patents. Moreover, the impact of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, advanced algorithms, and cloud-based software is explored, presenting novel challenges to authorship and legal regulation. These advancements underscore the necessity of revisiting and adapting laws to address the specific characteristics of modern software. Regarding piracy, an evolution in countermeasures is observed, driven by globalization and technological advancement, although the response in Latin America has been slower due to economic and social challenges. The study concludes that a flexible and tailored approach is essential to protect software, stimulate innovation, and address the legal complexities of the digital age.
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