Using Cloned Scripts

Discussion in 'Legal Issues' started by Inferno Arcade, Nov 13, 2010.

  1. #1
    I am curious if it is illegal to use cloned scripts or not. I understand that as long as it doesn't really steal anything from it, it is.

    Specifically, would there be any issues usingthe script found here? It is a clone of FMyLife.com.

    Thank you for any help,

    Inferno Arcade
     
    Inferno Arcade, Nov 13, 2010 IP
  2. contentboss

    contentboss Peon

    Messages:
    3,241
    Likes Received:
    54
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    0
    #2
    'Clone' means a piece of software that replicates the functionality of another. As long as the source code (which is copyright) hasn't been used, and the new software has been rewritten from scratch, there isn't a problem. You can't patent an idea, basically, and ideas are also not copyrightable.
     
    contentboss, Nov 14, 2010 IP
  3. subdivisions

    subdivisions Well-Known Member

    Messages:
    1,021
    Likes Received:
    40
    Best Answers:
    1
    Trophy Points:
    145
    #3
    Depends. I maintain a free script similar to FML (see sig). The idea is the same, but they both have their own differences too.
    This, IMO, is perfectly okay.

    If I were to write a Facebook script, name it "Faceclone", and make it look *exactly* like Facebook, THEN it would be an entirely different story.
     
    subdivisions, Nov 14, 2010 IP
  4. Inferno Arcade

    Inferno Arcade Peon

    Messages:
    101
    Likes Received:
    2
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    0
    #4
    I plan on changing the design up a bit to make it different from the others.

    Thank you all for the help.
     
    Last edited: Nov 14, 2010
    Inferno Arcade, Nov 14, 2010 IP
  5. contentboss

    contentboss Peon

    Messages:
    3,241
    Likes Received:
    54
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    0
    #5
    you'd have problems with 'passing off' vs their trademark. They might also try to get you for a 'look and fee' action, which is harder to prosecute.
     
    contentboss, Nov 15, 2010 IP