Checklist: Are You Compliant with Global IP Laws?

IP compliance isn’t just a U.S. issue – and it isn’t just about responding to takedown notices.

Modern platforms – especially POD, UGC, and marketplaces – operate in a global environment where different regions apply different IP rules.

If you rely on DMCA Safe Harbor alone, you’re exposed in markets like the EU, UK, Canada, and Australia.

Here’s a practical checklist to help your platform audit your compliance across key global frameworks.

1. Platform-Wide IP Compliance Basics

• Clear IP policy in Terms of Service
• Copyright, trademark, and design rights addressed separately
• Public IP guidelines for users and creators
• Training for internal teams (moderators, support, legal)

2. U.S. DMCA Compliance

• DMCA agent registered with U.S. Copyright Office
• Notice & takedown process clearly explained
• Counter-notice procedure in place
• Repeat infringer policy defined & enforced
• Records of enforcement actions maintained

3. EU Digital Services Act (DSA) / EU Copyright Directive

• Proactive measures to detect & remove illegal content
• “Notice & action” system, not just DMCA-style takedown
• Trusted flagger relationships where relevant
• “Repeat offender” risk management for users & sellers
• Dispute resolution and appeals processes transparent
• Cross-border content removal obligations understood

Key difference vs DMCA: In the EU, you are expected to be proactive, not just reactive.

4. UK Regulations

• Copyright, Designs and Patents Act compliance
• Safe harbor under UK eCommerce Directive standards
• Proactive moderation aligned with UKIPO (UK Intellectual Property Office) guidance

5. Australia

• Copyright Act 1968 compliance
• Repeat infringer process recognized by Australian courts
• Alignment with ACCC guidance on platform responsibility

6. Global Best Practices

• International copyright term awareness
• Public domain verified per jurisdiction
• Trademarks respected globally – even if copyright has expired
• Global seller onboarding with jurisdiction-specific disclosures

AI tools (like Infringio) used to:

• Flag likely infringements proactively
• Catch regional variations in IP risk
• Provide audit trails for brand protection & regulatory defense

Conclusion: Global Compliance = Global Trust

Too many platforms assume DMCA compliance is enough.

In reality, global IP compliance today requires:

• Proactive systems
• Region-aware policies
• Documented enforcement
• Tools like Infringio to scale compliance intelligently across multiple legal frameworks

Platforms that get this right don’t just avoid lawsuits.

They earn:

• Brand trust
• Creator loyalty
• Cross-border scalability

Book a demo with VISUA today to see how Infringio works.

Disclaimer: Not Legal Advice

This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. The information reflects our understanding as of the date of publication and may not apply to every situation or jurisdiction. You should consult qualified legal counsel for advice tailored to your specific circumstances. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk. Neither VISUA nor its affiliates accept liability for any losses or damages arising from the use of this information.