Hello I recently started a new facebook app. The idea and the design is unique and im pround of it. However loads of people kkep asking if they can buy a copy of the app to create there own version. i dont want this and say no but im worried that they can just copy it anyway? or at least create a site VERY similair. My app is http://apps.facebook.com/ultimatepaintball/ Any ideas. I dont want hard work going down the drain? Thanks
Just say no and if they steal it, it's CR to you.... and you'll deal with them legally. (also code the script will a callhome or for sure ioncube would do it)
Give it a unique name and copyright the coding. That way if anyone emulates you, you can take appropriate action.
People are going to tell you to sue, sue, sue...those people are common dp members and they really do not have a clue what is going on...yes if someone steals your work, then you can sue over copyright issues, bla, bla... because when someone duplicates your work, they will release it over the net, now you have 100,000 users ... are you going to sue them all...even if you sue the first one that stole your work or whatever, its going to cost your 1000's of $$$ in legal fees, ok, lets say you win? What did you win? nothing...the other guy files BK, and you still lost big bucks... just remember, anything you can create, some other coder may create it better, and improved...so there is not much you can do expect just not put it online if you think it is so great...if a someone really wants it, they will get it, duplicate it, and give it out free just on principal...
I should also add that in many cases, the people who will be copying your software live in countries that don't even recognize copyright law...