How do I handle a DMCA Takedown Notice?

Here's how customers can properly respond to a DMCA takedown notice.

What happens if you receive a takedown notice for your own, or if you believe you did not infringe on the notice senders work?

1. Relax. In most cases, a takedown notice is not a prelude to a lawsuit. The copyright owner simply wants the material removed from your website. However, it's also wise to confirm that the notice has been properly filed. 
2. You should review the notice to confirm that it includes the correct information as described in video four of the series.
3. Confirm that the notice sender is either the copyright owner or a legal representative, such as a law firm, publisher, or rights-management organization acting on behalf of the copyright owner. 

As the website administrator at your school, you should do an honest assessment of the likelihood that any content on your site could in fact be infringing or consider whether there is some other legal reason you may be allowed to use the work, such as it being a fair use or a work license by the platform. This honest assessment goes both ways and you should acknowledge when the use may likely be infringing before responding. 

For more information on responding to a takedown notice, click here.