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Copyright: someone copied my content, software or images. What can I do?

First confirm you own the copyright and that no statutory exception applies. Then choose between a takedown request, a notice and a suit.

This may be infringement under section 51.

High complexity - significant legal consequences

  • Collect dated evidence: screenshots with URLs, copies, purchase records, and proof of your own creation date.
  • Copyright arises without registration, but a registration entry is prima facie evidence of the particulars recorded (section 48).
  • For online copies, ask the platform to remove them; many have copyright complaint procedures. Section 52(1)(c) also requires a service storing a copy for linking or access to stop facilitating access for 21 days on a written complaint.
  • Civil remedies include an injunction, damages and accounts of profits (section 55). An innocent infringer may face only an injunction and an account of profits.
  • You can sue in the district court where you reside or carry on business (section 62(2)).
  • Avoid threats you will not follow through on: section 60 allows a person threatened without basis to sue.

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