Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA)

Summary

A law that implements international treaties and addresses copyright challenges in the digital age, specifically regarding online service providers and digital rights management.

Rights & Rules

01.
Online platforms are protected from liability for user-posted content if they follow 'take-down' procedures.
02.
Creators can legally protect their digital works using encryption or digital locks.
03.
Users can request the restoration of content removed by mistake via a counter-notification.

Penalties

01.
Civil damages including actual losses or statutory damages up to $30,000 per work.
02.
Criminal penalties up to $500,000 and 5 years in prison for first-time willful violations for commercial gain.
03.
Injunctive relief to prevent further distribution of infringing materials.

Verified Citations

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