The DMC is a United States Copyright Law that criminalizes the production or dissemination of technology, devices, and services intended to circumvent access control measures for copyrighted works. The Act criminalizes the act itself of circumventing a control, whether or no there is an actual infringement. It is illegal to bypass access control in order to view, or copy, content even if there has been no copyright violation.
The DMC includes provisions to protect copyrighted material on the internet. It offers a "safe harbour" for online service provider (such as websites or internet service providers) to protect them from being held accountable for the infringing activity of their users.
The DMC has a notice-and takedown system that allows copyright holders and online service providers to communicate alleged copyright violations. The service provider must remove or disable access immediately upon receiving a valid notice. The alleged infringer can then file a counter notice if they feel the material was removed by mistake.
Since its inception, the DMC has received both praise and criticism. The DMC is praised by its supporters for providing copyright holders with essential tools to protect their rights. However, critics claim it can stifle innovation and free speech, and that notice-and-takedown is prone to misuse.
The DMC is an important piece of legislation with far-reaching implications in terms of copyright protection and enforcement. The Act is likely to continue to be debated and scrutinized as technology continues to advance.
