Comparative Law Review

Comparative Law Review

Legal Dimensions and Challenges of Copyright (Author Right) Enforcement in the Metaverse, with an Emphasis on the American Jurisprudence and Iranian Law

Document Type : Research Paper

Author
Amid Mohammadi
Assistant Prof. in Private law, Faculty of humanitties, Jahrom University, Jahrom, Iran
10.22059/jcl.2026.412465.634878
Abstract
The metaverse, as a digital and interactive ecosystem grounded in the convergence of technologies such as blockchain, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and digital assets, has created novel opportunities for the creation, distribution, and exploitation of intellectual works. At the same time, it has posed significant challenges to classical concepts of intellectual property law, particularly copyright. In this environment, the expansion of user-generated content, the potential for unlimited reproduction of digital works, and the emergence of instruments such as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have blurred the traditional boundaries between ownership of digital assets and ownership of copyright. Adopting an analytical and comparative approach, this article examines the legal dimensions of copyright protection in the metaverse and, with particular emphasis on United States case law, seeks to assess the applicability of traditional copyright doctrines within this evolving environment. In this context, the study analyzes the legal nature of the metaverse and explores key challenges, including the determination of ownership of digital works, the identification of infringers in decentralized environments, the scope of the fair use doctrine, and the legal status of non-fungible tokens. The findings indicate that although the metaverse facilitates novel forms of copyright infringement, the fundamental principles of copyright law remain applicable in this space, and emerging technologies should be interpreted and regulated within the framework of these established principles. Ultimately, the article argues that an effective response to the challenges posed by the metaverse requires an integrated approach combining the development of judicial interpretation, the use of technological tools such as smart contracts, and progress toward legislative harmonization at both national and international levels. Such an approach can safeguard authors’ rights while simultaneously fostering dynamism and innovation in the future digital economy.
Keywords
Metaverse
Intellectual Property
Copyright
Non-Fungible Token
Smart Contract.
Subjects
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Comparative Law Review
Volume 17, Issue 1 - Serial Number 33
Spring & Summer 2026
August 2026
Pages 281-303