What is a DMCA Takedown?

The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) is a US law that protects copyright holders online. A DMCA takedown notice is a formal request to remove copyrighted content from a website or platform.

When you file a valid DMCA notice, platforms are legally required to remove the infringing content or risk losing their "safe harbor" protection from copyright liability.

Important: You must be the copyright owner (or authorized to act on their behalf) to file a DMCA notice. Filing false claims is perjury and can result in legal consequences.

Before You File: What You Need

Gather this information before submitting your DMCA notice:

Proof of ownership: Original files, dated social media posts, or other evidence you created the work
Infringing URL(s): Direct links to where your stolen art appears
Your original work URL: Link to where you originally posted the artwork
Screenshots: In case the content is removed before your claim is processed
Your contact information: Legal name, email, and address

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Document Everything

Screenshot the page with the stolen art, including the URL visible. Note the date you discovered it. Keep records of when you originally created and posted your work.

Step 2: Find the Right Contact

Most platforms have a dedicated DMCA or copyright reporting form. Look for links like "Report Copyright Infringement" or "DMCA" in the site footer or help center.

Step 3: Write Your Notice

Your DMCA notice must include specific elements to be valid. Use our template below or the platform's official form.

Step 4: Submit and Wait

Send your notice via the platform's form or to their designated DMCA agent. Most platforms respond within 24-72 hours. Keep a copy of everything you submit.

Free DMCA Notice Template

Copy and customize this template for platforms that require email submission:

Subject: DMCA Takedown Notice - Copyright Infringement Dear [Platform Name] Legal/DMCA Team, I am writing to report copyright infringement of my original artwork. 1. IDENTIFICATION OF COPYRIGHTED WORK: - Title: [Your Artwork Title] - Original Publication: [Link to your portfolio/social media] - Date Created: [Date] 2. INFRINGING MATERIAL: - URL(s): [List all infringing URLs] 3. CONTACT INFORMATION: - Name: [Your Legal Name] - Email: [Your Email] - Address: [Your Address] - Phone: [Optional] 4. STATEMENTS: I have a good faith belief that the use of the material in the manner complained of is not authorized by me, my agent, or the law. I swear, under penalty of perjury, that the information in this notification is accurate and that I am the copyright owner or authorized to act on behalf of the owner. 5. SIGNATURE: /s/ [Your Name] Date: [Current Date]

Platform-Specific DMCA Contacts

Quick links to report copyright infringement on major platforms:

Instagram Twitter/X Facebook DeviantArt Pinterest Tumblr Reddit TikTok Etsy Redbubble Google (Images)Shopify Stores

What Happens After Filing

24-72 hours: Most platforms review and remove content within this timeframe
Counter-notice: The infringer may file a counter-notice claiming fair use or ownership
10-14 days: If a counter-notice is filed, you have this window to file a lawsuit or the content may be restored
Repeat infringers: Platforms may ban users who receive multiple DMCA strikes

Tip: If a platform doesn't respond within a week, escalate to their hosting provider (you can find this via WHOIS lookup) or consider consulting an attorney for persistent cases.

Automating the Process

Manually searching for stolen art and filing DMCA notices is time-consuming. That's why we built Where's My Art?

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Track all your takedown requests in one place

How to File a DMCA Takedown Notice: Complete Guide for Artists (2025)

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