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17 U.S. Code § 512 - Limitations on liability relating to material online | U.S. Code | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute
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class="btn btn-primary">Go!</button> </form> <h1 class="title" id="page_title"> 17 U.S. Code § 512 - Limitations on liability relating to material online </h1> <div class="tabbable-panel"> <div class="tabbable-line"> <ul class="nav nav-tabs "> <li class="active"> <a data-toggle="tab" href="#tab_default_1"> U.S. Code </a> </li> <li> <a data-toggle="tab" href="#tab_default_2"> Notes </a> </li> </ul> <div class="tab-content"> <div id="prevnext"> <a href="/uscode/text/17/511" title=" Liability of States, instrumentalities of States, and State officials for infringement of copyright">prev</a> | <a href="/uscode/text/17/513" title=" Determination of reasonable license fees for individual proprietors">next</a> </div> <div class="tab-pane active" id="tab_default_1"> <!-- 'text' content area --> <text><div class="text"> <div class="section"> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="a"></a><span class="num" value="a">(a)</span><span class="heading"> Transitory Digital Network Communications.—</span><span class="chapeau">A <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> shall not be liable for<a aria-label="Definitions - monetary relief," class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1130891076-837269587&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512"> monetary relief,</a> or, except as provided in subsection (j), for injunctive or other equitable relief, for infringement of copyright by reason of the provider’s transmitting, routing, or providing connections for, material through a system or network controlled or operated by or for the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>, or by reason of the intermediate and transient storage of that material in the course of such transmitting, routing, or providing connections, if—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="a_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span> <div class="content"> the transmission of the material was initiated by or at the direction of a person other than the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="a_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span> <div class="content"> the transmission, routing, provision of connections, or storage is carried out through an automatic technical process without selection of the material by the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="a_3"></a><span class="num" value="3">(3)</span> <div class="content"> the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> does not select the recipients of the material except as an automatic response to the request of another person;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="a_4"></a><span class="num" value="4">(4)</span> <div class="content"> no copy of the material made by the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> in the course of such intermediate or transient storage is maintained on the system or network in a manner ordinarily accessible to<a aria-label="Definitions - anyone " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1412637446-1487364491&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512"> anyone </a>other than anticipated recipients, and no such copy is maintained on the system or network in a manner ordinarily accessible to such anticipated recipients for a longer period than is reasonably necessary for the transmission, routing, or provision of connections; and</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="a_5"></a><span class="num" value="5">(5)</span> <div class="content"> the material is transmitted through the system or network without modification of its content.</div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="b"></a><span class="num" value="b">(b)</span><span class="heading"> System Caching.—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="b_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span><span class="heading"> Limitation on liability.—</span><span class="chapeau">A <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> shall not be liable for<a aria-label="Definitions - monetary relief," class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1130891076-837269587&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512"> monetary relief,</a> or, except as provided in subsection (j), for injunctive or other equitable relief, for infringement of copyright by reason of the intermediate and temporary storage of material on a system or network controlled or operated by or for the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> in a case in which—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="b_1_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> the material is made available online by a person other than the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="b_1_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> the material is transmitted from the person described in subparagraph (A) through the system or network to a person other than the person described in subparagraph (A) at the direction of that other person; and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="b_1_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span> <div class="content"> the storage is carried out through an automatic technical process for the purpose of making the material available to users of the system or network who, after the material is transmitted as described in subparagraph (B), request access to the material from the person described in subparagraph (A),</div> </div> <div class="continuation indent1 firstIndent0">if the conditions set forth in paragraph (2) are met.</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="b_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span><span class="heading"> Conditions.—</span><span class="chapeau">The conditions referred to in paragraph (1) are that—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="b_2_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> the material described in paragraph (1) is transmitted to the subsequent users described in paragraph (1)(C) without modification to its content from the manner in which the material was transmitted from the person described in paragraph (1)(A);</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="b_2_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> described in paragraph (1) complies with rules concerning the refreshing, reloading, or other updating of the material when specified by the person making the material available online in accordance with a generally accepted industry standard data communications protocol for the system or network through which that person makes the material available, except that this subparagraph applies only if those rules are not used by the person described in paragraph (1)(A) to prevent or unreasonably impair the intermediate storage to which this subsection applies;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="b_2_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span><span class="chapeau"> the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> does not interfere with the ability of technology associated with the material to return to the person described in paragraph (1)(A) the information that would have been available to that person if the material had been obtained by the subsequent users described in paragraph (1)(C) directly from that person, except that this subparagraph applies only if that technology—</span> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="b_2_C_i"></a><span class="num" value="i">(i)</span> <div class="content"> does not significantly interfere with the performance of the provider’s system or network or with the intermediate storage of the material;</div> </div> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="b_2_C_ii"></a><span class="num" value="ii">(ii)</span> <div class="content"> is consistent with generally accepted industry standard communications protocols; and</div> </div> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="b_2_C_iii"></a><span class="num" value="iii">(iii)</span> <div class="content"> does not extract information from the provider’s system or network other than the information that would have been available to the person described in paragraph (1)(A) if the subsequent users had gained access to the material directly from that person;</div> </div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="b_2_D"></a><span class="num" value="D">(D)</span> <div class="content"> if the person described in paragraph (1)(A) has in effect a condition that a person must meet prior to having access to the material, such as a condition based on payment of a fee or provision of a password or other information, the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> permits access to the stored material in significant part only to users of its system or network that have met those conditions and only in accordance with those conditions; and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="b_2_E"></a><span class="num" value="E">(E)</span><span class="chapeau"> if the person described in paragraph (1)(A) makes that material available online without the authorization of the copyright owner of the material, the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> responds expeditiously to remove, or disable access to, the material that is claimed to be infringing upon notification of claimed infringement as described in subsection (c)(3), except that this subparagraph applies only if—</span> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="b_2_E_i"></a><span class="num" value="i">(i)</span> <div class="content"> the material has previously been removed from the originating site or access to it has been disabled, or a court has ordered that the material be removed from the originating site or that access to the material on the originating site be disabled; and</div> </div> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="b_2_E_ii"></a><span class="num" value="ii">(ii)</span> <div class="content"> the party giving the notification includes in the notification a statement confirming that the material has been removed from the originating site or access to it has been disabled or that a court has ordered that the material be removed from the originating site or that access to the material on the originating site be disabled.</div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="c"></a><span class="num" value="c">(c)</span><span class="heading"> Information Residing on Systems or Networks At Direction of Users.—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="c_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span><span class="heading"> In general.—</span><span class="chapeau">A <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> shall not be liable for<a aria-label="Definitions - monetary relief," class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1130891076-837269587&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512"> monetary relief,</a> or, except as provided in subsection (j), for injunctive or other equitable relief, for infringement of copyright by reason of the storage at the direction of a user of material that resides on a system or network controlled or operated by or for the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>, if the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="c_1_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="clause indent2"><a name="c_1_A_i"></a><span class="num" value="i">(i)</span> <div class="content"> does not have actual knowledge that the material or an activity using the material on the system or network is infringing;</div> </div> <div class="clause indent2"><a name="c_1_A_ii"></a><span class="num" value="ii">(ii)</span> <div class="content"> in the absence of such actual knowledge, is not aware of facts or circumstances from which infringing activity is apparent; or</div> </div> <div class="clause indent2"><a name="c_1_A_iii"></a><span class="num" value="iii">(iii)</span> <div class="content"> upon obtaining such knowledge or awareness, acts expeditiously to remove, or disable access to, the material;</div> </div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="c_1_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> does not receive a financial benefit directly attributable to the infringing activity, in a case in which the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> has the right and ability to control such activity; and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="c_1_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span> <div class="content"> upon notification of claimed infringement as described in paragraph (3), responds expeditiously to remove, or disable access to, the material that is claimed to be infringing or to be the subject of infringing activity.</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="c_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span><span class="heading"> Designated agent.—</span><span class="chapeau">The limitations on liability established in this subsection apply to a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> only if the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> has designated an agent to receive notifications of claimed infringement described in paragraph (3), by making available through its service, including on its website in a location accessible to the public, and by providing to the Copyright Office, substantially the following information:</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="c_2_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> the name, address, phone number, and electronic mail address of the agent.</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="c_2_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> other contact information which the Register of Copyrights may deem appropriate.</div> </div> <div class="continuation indent1 firstIndent0">The Register of Copyrights shall maintain a current directory of agents available to the public for inspection, including through the Internet, and may require payment of a fee by <a aria-label="Definitions - service providers" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service providers</a> to cover the costs of maintaining the directory.</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="c_3"></a><span class="num" value="3">(3)</span><span class="heading"> Elements of notification.—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="c_3_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span><span class="chapeau"> To be effective under this subsection, a notification of claimed infringement must be a written communication provided to the designated agent of a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> that includes substantially the following:</span> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="c_3_A_i"></a><span class="num" value="i">(i)</span> <div class="content"> A physical or electronic signature of a person authorized to act on behalf of the owner of an exclusive right that is allegedly infringed.</div> </div> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="c_3_A_ii"></a><span class="num" value="ii">(ii)</span> <div class="content"> Identification of the copyrighted work claimed to have been infringed, or, if multiple copyrighted works at a single online site are covered by a single notification, a representative list of such works at that site.</div> </div> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="c_3_A_iii"></a><span class="num" value="iii">(iii)</span> <div class="content"> Identification of the material that is claimed to be infringing or to be the subject of infringing activity and that is to be removed or access to which is to be disabled, and information reasonably sufficient to permit the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> to locate the material.</div> </div> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="c_3_A_iv"></a><span class="num" value="iv">(iv)</span> <div class="content"> Information reasonably sufficient to permit the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> to contact the complaining party, such as an address, telephone number, and, if available, an electronic mail address at which the complaining party may be contacted.</div> </div> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="c_3_A_v"></a><span class="num" value="v">(v)</span> <div class="content"> A statement that the complaining party has a good faith belief that use of the material in the manner complained of is not authorized by the copyright owner, its agent, or the law.</div> </div> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="c_3_A_vi"></a><span class="num" value="vi">(vi)</span> <div class="content"> A statement that the information in the notification is accurate, and under penalty of perjury, that the complaining party is authorized to act on behalf of the owner of an exclusive right that is allegedly infringed.</div> </div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="c_3_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="clause indent2"><a name="c_3_B_i"></a><span class="num" value="i">(i)</span> <div class="content"> Subject to clause (ii), a notification from a copyright owner or from a person authorized to act on behalf of the copyright owner that fails to comply substantially with the provisions of subparagraph (A) shall not be considered under paragraph (1)(A) in determining whether a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> has actual knowledge or is aware of facts or circumstances from which infringing activity is apparent.</div> </div> <div class="clause indent2"><a name="c_3_B_ii"></a><span class="num" value="ii">(ii)</span> <div class="content"> In a case in which the notification that is provided to the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s designated agent fails to comply substantially with all the provisions of subparagraph (A) but substantially complies with clauses (ii), (iii), and (iv) of subparagraph (A), clause (i) of this subparagraph applies only if the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> promptly attempts to contact the person making the notification or takes other reasonable steps to assist in the receipt of notification that substantially complies with all the provisions of subparagraph (A).</div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="d"></a><span class="num" value="d">(d)</span><span class="heading"> Information Location Tools.—</span><span class="chapeau">A <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> shall not be liable for<a aria-label="Definitions - monetary relief," class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1130891076-837269587&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512"> monetary relief,</a> or, except as provided in subsection (j), for injunctive or other equitable relief, for infringement of copyright by reason of the provider referring or linking users to an online location containing infringing material or infringing activity, by using information location tools, including a directory, index, reference, pointer, or hypertext link, if the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="d_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span> <div class="subparagraph indent1"><a name="d_1_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> does not have actual knowledge that the material or activity is infringing;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent1"><a name="d_1_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> in the absence of such actual knowledge, is not aware of facts or circumstances from which infringing activity is apparent; or</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent1"><a name="d_1_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span> <div class="content"> upon obtaining such knowledge or awareness, acts expeditiously to remove, or disable access to, the material;</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="d_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span> <div class="content"> does not receive a financial benefit directly attributable to the infringing activity, in a case in which the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> has the right and ability to control such activity; and</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="d_3"></a><span class="num" value="3">(3)</span> <div class="content"> upon notification of claimed infringement as described in subsection (c)(3), responds expeditiously to remove, or disable access to, the material that is claimed to be infringing or to be the subject of infringing activity, except that, for purposes of this paragraph, the information described in subsection (c)(3)(A)(iii) shall be identification of the reference or link, to material or activity claimed to be infringing, that is to be removed or access to which is to be disabled, and information reasonably sufficient to permit the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> to locate that reference or link.</div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="e"></a><span class="num" value="e">(e)</span><span class="heading"> Limitation on Liability of Nonprofit Educational Institutions.—</span> <div class="paragraph indent0"><a name="e_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span><span class="chapeau"> When a public or other nonprofit institution of higher education is a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>, and when a faculty member or graduate student who is an employee of such institution is performing a teaching or research function, for the purposes of subsections (a) and (b) such faculty member or graduate student shall be considered to be a person other than the institution, and for the purposes of subsections (c) and (d) such faculty member’s or graduate student’s knowledge or awareness of his or her infringing activities shall not be attributed to the institution, if—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent1"><a name="e_1_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> such faculty member’s or graduate student’s infringing activities do not involve the provision of online access to instructional materials that are or were required or recommended, within the preceding 3-year period, for a course taught at the institution by such faculty member or graduate student;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent1"><a name="e_1_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> the institution has not, within the preceding 3-year period, received more than two notifications described in subsection (c)(3) of claimed infringement by such faculty member or graduate student, and such notifications of claimed infringement were not actionable under subsection (f); and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent1"><a name="e_1_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span> <div class="content"> the institution provides to all users of its system or network informational materials that accurately describe, and promote compliance with, the laws of the United States relating to copyright.</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent0"><a name="e_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span> <div class="content"> For the purposes of this subsection, the limitations on injunctive relief contained in subsections (j)(2) and (j)(3), but not those in (j)(1), shall apply.</div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="f"></a><span class="num" value="f">(f)</span><span class="heading"> Misrepresentations.—</span><span class="chapeau">Any person who knowingly materially misrepresents under this section—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="f_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span> <div class="content"> that material or activity is infringing, or</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="f_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span> <div class="content"> that material or activity was removed or disabled by mistake or misidentification,</div> </div> <div class="continuation indent0 firstIndent0">shall be liable for any damages, including costs and attorneys’ fees, incurred by the alleged infringer, by any copyright owner or copyright owner’s authorized licensee, or by a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>, who is injured by such misrepresentation, as the result of the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> relying upon such misrepresentation in removing or disabling access to the material or activity claimed to be infringing, or in replacing the removed material or ceasing to disable access to it.</div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="g"></a><span class="num" value="g">(g)</span><span class="heading"> Replacement of Removed or Disabled Material and Limitation on Other Liability.—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="g_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span><span class="heading"> No liability for taking down generally.—</span> <div class="content">Subject to paragraph (2), a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> shall not be liable to any person for any claim based on the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s good faith disabling of access to, or removal of, material or activity claimed to be infringing or based on facts or circumstances from which infringing activity is apparent, regardless of whether the material or activity is ultimately determined to be infringing.</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="g_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span><span class="heading"> Exception.—</span><span class="chapeau">Paragraph (1) shall not apply with respect to material residing at the direction of a subscriber of the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> on a system or network controlled or operated by or for the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> that is removed, or to which access is disabled by the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>, pursuant to a notice provided under subsection (c)(1)(C), unless the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="g_2_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> takes reasonable steps promptly to notify the subscriber that it has removed or disabled access to the material;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="g_2_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> upon receipt of a counter notification described in paragraph (3), promptly provides the person who provided the notification under subsection (c)(1)(C) with a copy of the counter notification, and informs that person that it will replace the removed material or cease disabling access to it in 10 business days; and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="g_2_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span> <div class="content"> replaces the removed material and ceases disabling access to it not less than 10, nor more than 14, business days following receipt of the counter notice, unless its designated agent first receives notice from the person who submitted the notification under subsection (c)(1)(C) that such person has filed an action seeking a court order to restrain the subscriber from engaging in infringing activity relating to the material on the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s system or network.</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="g_3"></a><span class="num" value="3">(3)</span><span class="heading"> Contents of counter notification.—</span><span class="chapeau">To be effective under this subsection, a counter notification must be a written communication provided to the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s designated agent that includes substantially the following:</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="g_3_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> A physical or electronic signature of the subscriber.</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="g_3_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> Identification of the material that has been removed or to which access has been disabled and the location at which the material appeared before it was removed or access to it was disabled.</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="g_3_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span> <div class="content"> A statement under penalty of perjury that the subscriber has a good faith belief that the material was removed or disabled as a result of mistake or misidentification of the material to be removed or disabled.</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="g_3_D"></a><span class="num" value="D">(D)</span> <div class="content"> The subscriber’s name, address, and telephone number, and a statement that the subscriber consents to the jurisdiction of Federal District Court for the judicial district in which the address is located, or if the subscriber’s address is outside of the United States, for any judicial district in which the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> may be found, and that the subscriber will accept service of process from the person who provided notification under subsection (c)(1)(C) or an agent of such person.</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="g_4"></a><span class="num" value="4">(4)</span><span class="heading"> Limitation on other liability.—</span> <div class="content">A <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s compliance with paragraph (2) shall not subject the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> to liability for copyright infringement with respect to the material identified in the notice provided under subsection (c)(1)(C).</div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="h"></a><span class="num" value="h">(h)</span><span class="heading"> Subpoena To Identify Infringer.—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="h_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span><span class="heading"> Request.—</span> <div class="content">A copyright owner or a person authorized to act on the owner’s behalf may request the clerk of any United States district court to issue a subpoena to a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> for identification of an alleged infringer in accordance with this subsection.</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="h_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span><span class="heading"> Contents of request.—</span><span class="chapeau">The request may be made by filing with the clerk—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="h_2_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> a copy of a notification described in subsection (c)(3)(A);</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="h_2_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> a proposed subpoena; and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="h_2_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span> <div class="content"> a sworn declaration to the effect that the purpose for which the subpoena is sought is to obtain the identity of an alleged infringer and that such information will only be used for the purpose of protecting rights under this title.</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="h_3"></a><span class="num" value="3">(3)</span><span class="heading"> Contents of subpoena.—</span> <div class="content">The subpoena shall authorize and order the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> receiving the notification and the subpoena to expeditiously disclose to the copyright owner or person authorized by the copyright owner information sufficient to identify the alleged infringer of the material described in the notification to the extent such information is available to the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>.</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="h_4"></a><span class="num" value="4">(4)</span><span class="heading"> Basis for granting subpoena.—</span> <div class="content">If the notification filed satisfies the provisions of subsection (c)(3)(A), the proposed subpoena is in proper form, and the accompanying declaration is properly executed, the clerk shall expeditiously issue and sign the proposed subpoena and return it to the requester for delivery to the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>.</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="h_5"></a><span class="num" value="5">(5)</span><span class="heading"> Actions of service provider receiving subpoena.—</span> <div class="content">Upon receipt of the issued subpoena, either accompanying or subsequent to the receipt of a notification described in subsection (c)(3)(A), the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> shall expeditiously disclose to the copyright owner or person authorized by the copyright owner the information required by the subpoena, notwithstanding any other provision of law and regardless of whether the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> responds to the notification.</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="h_6"></a><span class="num" value="6">(6)</span><span class="heading"> Rules applicable to subpoena.—</span> <div class="content">Unless otherwise provided by this section or by applicable rules of the court, the procedure for issuance and delivery of the subpoena, and the remedies for noncompliance with the subpoena, shall be governed to the greatest extent practicable by those provisions of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure governing the issuance, service, and enforcement of a subpoena duces tecum.</div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="i"></a><span class="num" value="i">(i)</span><span class="heading"> Conditions for Eligibility.—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="i_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span><span class="heading"> Accommodation of technology.—</span><span class="chapeau">The limitations on liability established by this section shall apply to a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> only if the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="i_1_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> has adopted and reasonably implemented, and informs subscribers and account holders of the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s system or network of, a policy that provides for the termination in appropriate circumstances of subscribers and account holders of the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s system or network who are repeat infringers; and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="i_1_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> accommodates and does not interfere with <a aria-label="Definitions - standard technical measures" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-102089093-837271509&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">standard technical measures</a>.</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="i_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span><span class="heading"> Definition.—</span><span class="chapeau">As used in this subsection, the term “<a aria-label="Definitions - standard technical measures" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-102089093-837271509&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">standard technical measures</a>” means technical measures that are used by copyright owners to identify or protect copyrighted works and—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="i_2_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> have been developed pursuant to a broad consensus of copyright owners and <a aria-label="Definitions - service providers" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service providers</a> in an open, fair, voluntary, multi-industry standards process;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="i_2_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> are available to any person on reasonable and nondiscriminatory terms; and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="i_2_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span> <div class="content"> do not impose substantial costs on <a aria-label="Definitions - service providers" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service providers</a> or substantial burdens on their systems or networks.</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="j"></a><span class="num" value="j">(j)</span><span class="heading"> Injunctions.—</span><span class="chapeau">The following rules shall apply in the case of any application for an injunction under <a aria-label="17 USC 502" href="/uscode/text/17/502">section 502</a> against a<a aria-label="Definitions - service provider " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512"> service provider </a>that is not subject to monetary remedies under this section:</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="j_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span><span class="heading"> Scope of relief.—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent1"><a name="j_1_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span><span class="chapeau"> With respect to conduct other than that which qualifies for the limitation on remedies set forth in subsection (a), the court may grant injunctive relief with respect to a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> only in one or more of the following forms:</span> <div class="clause indent2"><a name="j_1_A_i"></a><span class="num" value="i">(i)</span> <div class="content"> An order restraining the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> from providing access to infringing material or activity residing at a particular online site on the provider’s system or network.</div> </div> <div class="clause indent2"><a name="j_1_A_ii"></a><span class="num" value="ii">(ii)</span> <div class="content"> An order restraining the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> from providing access to a subscriber or account holder of the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s system or network who is engaging in infringing activity and is identified in the order, by terminating the accounts of the subscriber or account holder that are specified in the order.</div> </div> <div class="clause indent2"><a name="j_1_A_iii"></a><span class="num" value="iii">(iii)</span> <div class="content"> Such other injunctive relief as the court may consider necessary to prevent or restrain infringement of copyrighted material specified in the order of the court at a particular online location, if such relief is the least burdensome to the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> among the forms of relief comparably effective for that purpose.</div> </div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent1"><a name="j_1_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span><span class="chapeau"> If the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> qualifies for the limitation on remedies described in subsection (a), the court may only grant injunctive relief in one or both of the following forms:</span> <div class="clause indent2"><a name="j_1_B_i"></a><span class="num" value="i">(i)</span> <div class="content"> An order restraining the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> from providing access to a subscriber or account holder of the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s system or network who is using the provider’s service to engage in infringing activity and is identified in the order, by terminating the accounts of the subscriber or account holder that are specified in the order.</div> </div> <div class="clause indent2"><a name="j_1_B_ii"></a><span class="num" value="ii">(ii)</span> <div class="content"> An order restraining the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> from providing access, by taking reasonable steps specified in the order to block access, to a specific, identified, online location outside the United States.</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="j_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span><span class="heading"> Considerations.—</span><span class="chapeau">The court, in considering the relevant criteria for injunctive relief under applicable law, shall consider—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="j_2_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> whether such an injunction, either alone or in combination with other such injunctions issued against the same <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> under this subsection, would significantly burden either the provider or the operation of the provider’s system or network;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="j_2_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> the magnitude of the harm likely to be suffered by the copyright owner in the digital network environment if steps are not taken to prevent or restrain the infringement;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="j_2_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span> <div class="content"> whether implementation of such an injunction would be technically feasible and effective, and would not interfere with access to noninfringing material at other online locations; and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="j_2_D"></a><span class="num" value="D">(D)</span> <div class="content"> whether other less burdensome and comparably effective means of preventing or restraining access to the infringing material are available.</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="j_3"></a><span class="num" value="3">(3)</span><span class="heading"> Notice and ex parte orders.—</span> <div class="content">Injunctive relief under this subsection shall be available only after notice to the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> and an opportunity for the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> to appear are provided, except for orders ensuring the preservation of evidence or other orders having no material adverse effect on the operation of the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s communications network.</div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="k"></a><span class="num" value="k">(k)</span><span class="heading"> Definitions.—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="k_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span><span class="heading"> Service provider.—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent1"><a name="k_1_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> As used in subsection (a), the term “<a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>” means an entity offering the transmission, routing, or providing of connections for digital online communications, between or among points specified by a user, of material of the user’s choosing, without modification to the content of the material as sent or received.</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent1"><a name="k_1_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> As used in this section, other than subsection (a), the term “<a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>” means a provider of online services or network access, or the operator of facilities therefor, and includes an entity described in subparagraph (A).</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="k_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span><span class="heading"> Monetary relief.—</span> <div class="content">As used in this section, the term “<a aria-label="Definitions - monetary relief" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1130891076-837269587&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">monetary relief</a>” means damages, costs, attorneys’ fees, and any other form of monetary payment.</div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="l"></a><span class="num" value="l">(l)</span><span class="heading"> Other Defenses Not Affected.—</span> <div class="content">The failure of a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s conduct to qualify for limitation of liability under this section shall not bear adversely upon the consideration of a defense by the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> that the <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a>’s conduct is not infringing under this title or any other defense.</div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="m"></a><span class="num" value="m">(m)</span><span class="heading"> Protection of Privacy.—</span><span class="chapeau">Nothing in this section shall be construed to condition the applicability of subsections (a) through (d) on—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="m_1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span> <div class="content"> a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> monitoring its service or affirmatively seeking facts indicating infringing activity, except to the extent consistent with a standard technical measure complying with the provisions of subsection (i); or</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="m_2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span> <div class="content"> a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> gaining access to, removing, or disabling access to material in cases in which such conduct is prohibited by law.</div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><a name="n"></a><span class="num" value="n">(n)</span><span class="heading"> Construction.—</span> <div class="content">Subsections (a), (b), (c), and (d) describe separate and distinct functions for purposes of applying this section. Whether a <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> qualifies for the limitation on liability in any one of those subsections shall be based solely on the criteria in that subsection, and shall not affect a determination of whether that <a aria-label="Definitions - service provider" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=17-USC-1204167940-837269588&term_occur=999&term_src=title:17:chapter:5:section:512">service provider</a> qualifies for the limitations on liability under any other such subsection.</div> </div> <div class="sourceCredit">(Added <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._105-304">Pub. L. 105–304, title II, § 202(a)</a>, <span class="date" date="1998-10-28">Oct. 28, 1998</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/112_Stat._2877">112 Stat. 2877</a>; amended <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._106-44">Pub. L. 106–44, § 1(d)</a>, <span class="date" date="1999-08-05">Aug. 5, 1999</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/113_Stat._222">113 Stat. 222</a>; <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._111-295">Pub. L. 111–295, § 3(a)</a>, <span class="date" date="2010-12-09">Dec. 9, 2010</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/124_Stat._3180">124 Stat. 3180</a>.)</div> </div> </div></text> </div> <div class="tab-pane" id="tab_default_2"> <!-- 'notes' content area --> <notes><div class="notes"> </div><div class="notes"> <div class="note" topic="editorialNotes"><span class="heading centered"><strong>Editorial Notes</strong></span></div> <div class="note" topic="referencesInText"> <span class="heading centered smallCaps">References in Text</span> <p>The Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, referred to in subsec. (h)(6), are set out in the <a aria-label="28a USC" href="/uscode/text/28a">Appendix to Title 28</a>, Judiciary and Judicial Procedure.</p> </div> <div class="note" topic="codification"><span class="heading centered smallCaps">Codification</span> <p>Another <a aria-label="17 USC 512" href="/uscode/text/17/512">section 512</a> was renumbered <a href="/uscode/text/17/513">section 513 of this title</a>.</p> </div> <div class="note" topic="amendments"><span class="heading centered smallCaps">Amendments</span> <p>2010—Subsec. (c)(2). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._111-295">Pub. L. 111–295</a> struck out “, in both electronic and hard copy formats” after “Internet” in concluding provisions.</p> <p>1999—Subsec. (e). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._106-44">Pub. L. 106–44, § 1(d)(1)(A)</a>, substituted “Limitation on Liability of Nonprofit Educational Institutions” for “Limitation on liability of nonprofit educational institutions” in heading.</p> <p>Subsec. (e)(2). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._106-44">Pub. L. 106–44, § 1(d)(1)(B)</a>, struck out par. heading “Injunctions”.</p> <p>Subsec. (j)(3). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._106-44">Pub. L. 106–44, § 1(d)(2)</a>, substituted “Notice and ex parte orders” for “Notice and Ex Parte Orders” in heading.</p> </div> <div class="note" topic="statutoryNotes"><span class="heading centered"><strong>Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries</strong></span></div> <div class="note" topic="effectiveDate"><span class="heading centered smallCaps">Effective Date</span> <p><a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._105-304">Pub. L. 105–304, title II, § 203</a>, <span class="date" date="1998-10-28">Oct. 28, 1998</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/112_Stat._2886">112 Stat. 2886</a>, provided that: </p><div class="quotedContent" origin="/us/pl/105/304/tII/s203">“This title [enacting this section and provisions set out as a note under <a href="/uscode/text/17/101">section 101 of this title</a>] and the amendments made by this title shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [<span class="date" date="1998-10-28">Oct. 28, 1998</span>].”</div> </div> </div></notes> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="page-bottom" aria-hidden="true"> <div class="region region-bottom"> <div id="block-liidfp-2" class="block block-liidfp first last odd"> <div class="gfs"> <div id="div-gpt-ad-bottom" data-google-query-id="CNH77Z7C7d8CFURLAQodp9oMpg"> <script type="text/javascript"> googletag.cmd.push(function () { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-bottom'); }); </script> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <aside id="supersizeme" class="col-sm-4" aria-label="Sponsor Listings and Toolbox panel"> <div class="block" id="toolbox"> <h2 class="title toolbox"><span class="glyphicon glyphicon-briefcase"></span> U.S. Code Toolbox </h2> <div class="clear-block wexlink"> <a href="/wex/wex_articles">Law about... 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