When you use other people's material, for example texts, tables and figures, you need to find out which rules apply regarding copyright. We have compiled information that can help you in your work.

Copyright and AI

If I create an image or text using an AI tool, do I own the copyright to the work?

No, copyright requires human authorship. You might possibly become the copyright holder if you have edited the work to such an extent that it becomes AI-assisted rather than AI-generated. However, there is no clear definition of how much editing is required. This would ultimately be decided by a court.

Can I freely use works created by AI tools?

It depends on which tool you used. When you use an AI tool, you enter into an agreement with the company behind it. Usually, you are allowed to freely use the work you prompted, but this can vary between services. Always check the terms regarding usage rights.

What should I consider if the image or work was created using copyrighted material?

Be mindful of what you input into an AI service—it must not closely resemble an existing copyrighted work. You are responsible for your prompts, even if the AI tool generates the final result. For example, if you use an AI-generated image and it turns out to be based on a copyrighted image, you are ultimately the one held accountable.

The Swedish Intellectual Property Office has clear information about copyright and AI images. (The video has English subtitles, press the cc-button.)