File a Takedown Notice
For copyright owners: demand removal of infringing content from websites and platforms.
File a Counter-Notice
Received a wrongful takedown? Respond with a proper DMCA counter-notification.
DMCA Takedown Notice
Copyright Owner Information
Original Copyrighted Work
If registered with the U.S. Copyright Office, include the registration number.
Infringing Content Details
Required Statements & Preview
By typing your name, you are signing this notice electronically.
DMCA Counter-Notice
Your Information
Removed Content Details
Required Statements & Preview
By typing your name, you are signing this counter-notice electronically.
Understanding the DMCA Takedown Process
The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) provides a legal framework for copyright owners to request the removal of infringing content from online platforms. Under 17 U.S.C. § 512, service providers that comply with DMCA takedown procedures are protected by "safe harbor" provisions from liability for their users' infringing activities.
What Is a DMCA Takedown Notice?
A DMCA takedown notice is a formal request sent to a service provider (such as a web host, social media platform, or search engine) demanding the removal of content that infringes on your copyright. To be legally valid under § 512(c)(3), a takedown notice must contain six specific elements:
- A physical or electronic signature of the copyright owner or authorized agent
- Identification of the copyrighted work claimed to have been infringed
- Identification of the infringing material and information sufficient to locate it
- Contact information of the complaining party
- A statement of good faith belief that the use is not authorized
- A statement, under penalty of perjury, that the information is accurate and the complainant is authorized to act
What Is a DMCA Counter-Notice?
If you believe your content was wrongly removed, the DMCA allows you to file a counter-notification under § 512(g). This puts the burden back on the original complainant, who must file a federal lawsuit within 10-14 business days, or the service provider must restore the removed content.
Safe Harbor Protection
Service providers that follow DMCA procedures-promptly removing content upon receiving valid takedown notices and restoring content after valid counter-notices-are shielded from copyright infringement liability under the safe harbor provisions of § 512.
Important Considerations
- Filing a false DMCA takedown notice can result in liability for damages, including attorneys' fees
- Counter-notices require you to consent to federal court jurisdiction
- This tool generates notice templates-consider consulting an attorney for complex cases
- International users should be aware that DMCA is a U.S. law; other jurisdictions may have different procedures
