The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word COPYRIGHT
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
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P
Y
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More clues leading to the result COPYRIGHT
- Bashful around papa over proper form of protection
- Parrot with suitable protection
- Policeman back on duty, yes? It’s an act
- Policeman fit to guard Yard’s exclusive property
- Protection from officer by end of day – and no mistake
- Officer doubly correct to provide protection
- Proper support for journalist’s text can stop others using it
- Catch end of willy on fitting – something that lasts more or less 70 years?
- Parrot, just intellectual property
- Protection for writer provided by detective, maybe just joining Yard
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "protection/protection" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case protection/protection = copyright.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does COPYRIGHT mean?
COPYRIGHT noun- The right by law to be the entity which determines who may publish, copy and distribute a piece of writing, music, picture or other work of authorship.
- Such an exclusive right as it pertains to one or more specific works.
- To obtain or secure a copyright for some literary or other artistic work.