Small business owners need to understand copyright laws to avoid infringement claims and safeguard their intellectual property.Common mistakes include using online content without proper authorization, such as images or text from search engines.Copying competitors' material, playing copyrighted music without licenses, and failing to register original work are also pitfalls to avoid.Legal and financial risks of copyright infringement include lawsuits, fines, reputational damage, and SEO penalties.Best practices include assuming content is copyrighted, using licensed material, and registering copyrights for original work.Creating an internal content policy, implementing monitoring tools, and seeking legal guidance can help businesses navigate copyright laws.Resources like the U.S. Copyright Office, WIPO, and Copyscape can assist small businesses in understanding and complying with copyright regulations.Subscribing to stock media services like Getty Images and Epidemic Sound ensures access to legally licensed content for business use.Small businesses that proactively address copyright compliance can operate smoothly, protect their creative assets, and avoid legal disputes.