The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) is a 1998 United States law that addresses copyright issues in the digital age. Here’s a summary of its key points:
- Protects copyrighted works online: It criminalizes the act of infringing on copyrighted works online, such as sharing copyrighted material without permission.
- Anti-circumvention: It prohibits creating or distributing tools or services that bypass technological measures used to control access to copyrighted works (e.g., breaking encryption protecting copyrighted content).
- Safe harbors for online service providers: It provides limitations on the liability of online platforms like websites and social media for copyright infringement by their users. These platforms can benefit from these protections by having a system in place to respond to takedown notices from copyright holders (explained below).
- Notice and takedown: This is a process where a copyright holder can notify an online service provider about infringing content on their platform, and the platform is required to remove the content if it meets certain criteria. The law also allows users to challenge the removal of their content if they believe it was a mistake.
The DMCA is a complex law with ongoing debates about its impact on copyright protection, free speech, and innovation. It’s important to note that this is just a simplified overview, and you should consult with a legal professional for any specific questions or legal advice.