The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) is a United States law passed in 1998 that impacts how copyright is handled online. Here are some key points about the DMCA:
- Protects copyrighted works: The DMCA makes it illegal to distribute copyrighted material without permission of the copyright holder. This applies to things like music, movies, written works, and software.
- Safe harbors for online providers: The DMCA provides a shield from liability for online service providers (like websites or social media platforms) if they take down content following a proper takedown notice from a copyright holder. This is known as “notice and takedown.”
- Anti-circumvention: The DMCA prohibits breaking or bypassing technological measures that control access to copyrighted works (often referred to as DRM or Digital Rights Management).
The DMCA has been controversial since its inception, with some arguing it stifles creativity and fair use, while others defend it as necessary to protect copyright holders.