For a social media platform provided internationally, do I have to apply for patent protection in multiple countries?

Question

Hello! If I were to get a patent for a process such as a social media platform connecting users of wearable technology, do I have to get international patents in all major countries where the platform would be used? For example, If I were to get a patent in the US, would I be protected against someone creating a clone in China, marketing to customers in Europe or the US? Since the internet allows for a product to be put on the market globally, must every technology be protected with a large number of patents?

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Answers: 3 public & 0 private

Winslow 10162011 mg 0063
Other Consultant

Two great answers already. I just want to add that a patent in the US (for example) would give the patent owner the right to exclude others from making, using, offering for sale, selling, or importing into the United States the invention claimed in the patent. Therefore, if a competitor copies your patented technology, they would be infringing by simply marketing or offering it for sale in the US.

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