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Why It's Important To Update Your Website Copyright Notice Each Year On Your Small Business Website

Writer's picture: Zena BarrickZena Barrick
Calendar showing 1st of January and copyright symbol

Here's Why And How To Update Your Website Copyright Notice

There are so many things to do for business over the festive season, it’s easy to overlook a small yet significant detail: remembering to update your website copyright notice on your website. While it may seem minor, this simple annual update has multiple benefits that can impact your credibility, SEO performance, and legal standing.


Demonstrate Professionalism and Credibility

When visitors land on your website and see an outdated copyright year, they might question whether your business is still active or if the website’s information is up to date. A current copyright date shows that you’re actively maintaining your website and paying attention to details which helps with your brand's credibility. In contrast, a copyright date that is out of date can make your business appear neglected or outdated.


Stay Compliant with UK Copyright Law

Under UK copyright law, your website’s content is automatically protected as soon as it is created. However, displaying a copyright notice, including the year, provides an added layer of protection and clarity.


By updating the copyright year regularly, you’re signalling that your website content is current and actively managed, which may help you in cases of legal disputes over content ownership.


Boost Your SEO Efforts

Search engines like Google prioritise fresh, relevant, and updated content. While updating your copyright year alone won’t dramatically boost your SEO rankings, it contributes to the overall perception of your website as well-maintained. Combine this update with other efforts, such as publishing new blog posts or refreshing older content, and you’ll enhance your site’s credibility in the eyes of both users and search engines.


How To Update Your Copyright Year

Your copyright notice is usually in the footer of your website. It should read something like:  “© [Year] [Your Business Name]. All rights reserved.”

Simply change the date to the current year


Set a reminder

Add a repeating task to your calendar reminding you to update your copyright date each January.



Do you need help getting your website up to date? I can help. Please get in touch.

Want to know more?

I offer a free, no-obligation consultation over Zoom.


It's more of an informal chat really.

 

You don't need to prepare; just tell me about what you do and together we can work out how a website could grow your business.

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