The Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 is a law that protects original works such as music, videos, software, and photographs from being copied, distributed or used without permission. The Act also covers designs and inventions, which can be protected by patents. In general, copyright lasts for the life of the creator plus 70 years. The Act allows for some exceptions, such as for educational purposes, but it is important to understand and follow the law to avoid infringing on someone else's intellectual property.