If your site content(s) has been removed by Google based on the filing of a DMCA Complaint. The notification in Google’s webmaster tools looks something like this:
In response to a complaint we received under the US Digital Millennium Copyright Act, we have removed 1 result(s) from this page. If you wish, you may read the DMCA complaint that caused the removal(s) at ChillingEffects.org.
Their sites are gone from the SERPS and people want to know SEO and legal strategies for getting around this problem. Sarah Bird over at SEOmoz has posted the best legal response to this problem.
Your best bet for getting content restored is to file a counter-notification in accordance with the DMCA.
Only fight an allegation of copyright infringement if you honestly believe that you’re innocent of the accusation. Be honest and don’t abuse the law. That goes for both complaining about and responding to copyright violations. If you don’t know whether you’re infringing someone’s copyright, consult an attorney before sending a counter-notification.
Samples of counter-notifications:
- Google’s Instructions on Filing Counter-Notifications (scroll down a bit, it’s after notifications. You’ll find a fax number, an address, and specific instructions on the information to include)
- Sample Put-Back Notice to Google by Neoteric (this is a great example of a classic and simple put-back notice)
- Future Quest Sample Put-Back Notice
- Do It Yourself Counter-Notification (very detailed article with great sample language! May be a bit overkill)
- Chilling Effects Frequently Asked Questions on Put-Back Notices
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