DMCA

Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) Policy – ControllerHub

At ControllerHub, we respect and protect the intellectual property rights of game developers, publishers, and all content creators whose works appear directly or indirectly in connection with our platform. This DMCA Copyright Policy outlines our procedures for handling copyright infringement complaints in accordance with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. It applies to all users of our game store, including those who browse, download, purchase, or upload content.

As a digital game distribution platform, we are committed to maintaining a lawful and respectful environment for the gaming community. We expect users, partners, and third-party contributors to adhere to copyright regulations and avoid unauthorized use or reproduction of protected material.

What Is Protected by Copyright in a Game Store Context?

Within the context of a digital game store, multiple forms of content can be considered copyrighted, including but not limited to:

  • Game titles, characters, and storylines
  • Game box art, covers, and promotional graphics
  • Screenshots and video trailers
  • Game descriptions and metadata
  • Developer logos, trademarks, and studio branding
  • Software code, DRM features, and distribution files
  • In-game music, effects, and soundtracks
  • Downloadable content (DLC), patches, and expansion packs

Unauthorized use, duplication, hosting, or sharing of such content may constitute a copyright violation. All content on our platform, whether user-uploaded or integrated through developer partnerships, must comply with applicable copyright laws.

Filing a DMCA Takedown Notice

If you are a copyright owner or authorized representative and believe your copyrighted work has been infringed on our platform, you may submit a DMCA Takedown Notice. This legal notification must include the following components to be valid:

  • Identification of the copyrighted work claimed to be infringed (game name, media type, or description).
  • Identification of the infringing content including specific URLs or clear references.
  • Your contact information: full legal name, company (if applicable), mailing address, telephone number, and email address.
  • A statement declaring your good faith belief that the disputed use is unauthorized.
  • A declaration under penalty of perjury that the information is accurate and that you are authorized to act on behalf of the copyright owner.
  • Your electronic or physical signature.

Upon receipt of a valid DMCA notice, we will investigate, temporarily disable or remove access to the allegedly infringing material, and notify the uploader or distributor.

Counter-Notification Process

If you are a user or developer who received a DMCA takedown notice and believe the content was removed in error or you are authorized to use it, you may file a counter-notification including:

  • Clear identification of the removed material and its original location before removal.
  • Your full contact details: name, address, phone number, and email.
  • A statement under penalty of perjury that the removal was mistaken or misidentification.
  • Your consent to jurisdiction of the appropriate court and acceptance of legal service from the complainant.
  • Your physical or electronic signature.

We will forward valid counter-notices to the complainant. If no legal action is initiated within the required timeframe, the content may be restored.

Repeat Infringer Policy

We enforce a strict repeat infringer policy. Users who repeatedly upload or share infringing material may face suspension, restriction, or permanent termination of accounts. Determinations are at our sole discretion and may consider multiple takedown notices or other abuse.

Content Usage Guidelines for Users and Sellers

To avoid copyright violations, all users, developers, and resellers must ensure they legally own or have licenses for any content they upload or publish, including:

  • Proper licenses for game assets, trailers, screenshots, and descriptions
  • Avoidance of unlicensed or pirated games or mods
  • Not copying or plagiarizing content from other platforms
  • Using third-party materials only with permission
  • Not misrepresenting affiliations with rights holders

Non-compliance may result in removal, penalties, or legal action.

Fair Use and Game Store Content

Some copyrighted content uses may be protected under fair use laws, such as:

  • Critical reviews and commentary
  • Educational or tutorial content
  • News reporting and analysis
  • Parody or satire
  • Comparisons and benchmarking

Fair use is complex; users should consult legal advisors to understand their rights. Our platform does not provide legal advice or guarantees.

How We Respond to DMCA Complaints

We review DMCA takedown requests individually. Valid complaints lead to removal or restriction of identified content, notification to responsible parties, and opportunity for counter-notifications. Invalid or incomplete notices may prompt requests for more information. Misuse of the DMCA process may result in legal consequences.

Protection of Developer and Publisher Rights

We cooperate with developers and publishers to protect their intellectual property. Official game listings include only authorized promotional content. We prohibit resale or download of unlicensed games or infringing products. Developers and publishers should report suspected infringements promptly.

Abuse of the DMCA Process

Fraudulent claims, false reporting, or attempts to silence critics via DMCA may lead to counterclaims or legal action. Users abusing counter-notification procedures also face penalties. We strive for a balanced, respectful dispute resolution process.

Updates and Modifications

This DMCA Policy may be updated to reflect changes in law, technology, or business needs. Users are responsible for regularly reviewing this policy. Continued platform use signifies acceptance of changes.

Contact Information

To submit a DMCA notice, counter-notice, or inquiry regarding intellectual property, please contact our designated DMCA agent. All communications should be clear, accurate, and comply with legal standards. We respond promptly to valid complaints while ensuring a fair process.