The Paradox of Abandonment
In the physical world, abandoned property eventually belongs to the finder or the state. In the digital world, copyright lasts for 70 years after the author's death. This creates a vast class of artifacts—old blogs, defunct software, forum posts—that are functionally abandoned but legally untouchable. We call these "Orphan Works."
The Protocol: Good Faith Effort
Since the law (in the U.S. and many jurisdictions) provides no clear solution, Archaeobytologists rely on a risk-managed approach known as the Good Faith Effort:
1. The Search
You must attempt to find the owner. Check WHOIS records, search for the creator's username, and post public inquiries. Document every step.
2. The Calculation
If the owner cannot be found, proceed with preservation under Fair Use, provided:
- The use is non-commercial/educational.
- The artifact is not currently being sold (no market harm).
- Attribution is clear.
3. The Escape Hatch
Always include a takedown notice. If the "parent" of the orphan appears, you must be ready to remove the work or negotiate licenses immediately.
Field Notes
The "Petribyte" as Orphan: Most Petribytes (dead, static artifacts) are orphans. Their creators have moved on, lost their passwords, or died. The Archaeobytologist becomes their foster parent, acting in their best interest until the true parent returns (which almost never happens).