An instructor claims he can use online lectures without permission just because they don't have a copyright symbol. What is the most accurate response?

The assertion that online lectures can be used freely simply because they lack a copyright symbol is misleading. In actuality, the absence of a copyright symbol does not mean that a work is not protected by copyright. According to copyright law, works can be protected even if they do not contain a notice. The correct understanding is that the mere presence of content online does not imply that it is in the public domain or free from copyright restrictions.

Copyright protection is automatic once a work is created and fixed in a tangible medium, regardless of whether a symbol is displayed. Therefore, it is important to assume that content may be protected by copyright unless explicitly stated otherwise. This notion emphasizes the necessity for individuals to seek permission or check the licensing terms associated with online materials before using them, ensuring respect for intellectual property rights.