Copyright does not protect an idea. It only protects the expression of the idea, whether as a literary, musical, dramatic and/or artistic work. Copyright protects only fixed works, not unrecorded verbal descriptions. Therefore, the best way to prevent an idea from being stolen is to keep it a secret. If a story idea is disclosed, it should be in writing and marked with the copyright claim. The creator could go further and register the work at the federal Copyright Office. In summary, a creator cannot control the actions of others and cannot prevent theft. However, a creator can take steps to protect their works.