DMCA Copyright Policy for LoadScreen

At LoadScreen, we recognize the tremendous creativity and innovation that goes into developing computer games, from intricate coding and immersive storytelling to stunning graphics and captivating soundtracks. As a platform dedicated to supporting the vibrant computer gaming community, we are committed to respecting and protecting the intellectual property rights of game developers, publishers, artists, musicians, and other content creators.

This Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) Copyright Policy outlines the procedures for reporting alleged copyright infringement related to computer games, explains how we respond to such reports, and describes the process for submitting counter-notifications if content is removed in error. Our goal is to ensure a balanced approach that protects copyright holders’ rights while safeguarding users’ ability to participate in the gaming community.

Importance of Copyright Protection in Computer Gaming

Computer games represent a unique combination of software engineering, art, narrative, music, and interactivity, often requiring years of development and substantial financial investment. Copyright law protects these creative works, including but not limited to:

• Source code and game engine software
• Visual assets such as character models, textures, environments, and animations
• Audio assets, including sound effects, musical scores, and voice recordings
• Storylines, scripts, dialogue, and other narrative elements
• User interface designs and gameplay mechanics that are expressed in code or creative elements

Unauthorized copying, distribution, or modification of these materials without permission can harm developers and undermine the gaming ecosystem. As such, our platform strictly enforces copyright laws to maintain a fair and legal gaming environment.

How to Submit a DMCA Takedown Notice

If you believe your copyrighted material related to computer games has been used on our platform without authorization, you may file a DMCA takedown notice. To comply with the DMCA, your notice must include the following information:

• Signature: Your physical or electronic signature, indicating your authorization to submit the complaint.
• Description of copyrighted work: A clear identification of the copyrighted computer game content you claim has been infringed. This might include the title of the game, descriptions of specific assets (such as character models, soundtracks, or code snippets), or other identifying information.
• Identification of infringing material: Details sufficient to locate the allegedly infringing material on our platform. This includes URLs, filenames, usernames, or any other information that will help us promptly locate the content.
• Your contact information: Your full legal name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address. We use this information to communicate with you regarding your complaint.
• Good faith statement: A statement asserting that you have a good faith belief that the use of the copyrighted content is not authorized by you, your agent, or the law.
• Statement under penalty of perjury: A declaration that the information in your notice is accurate and that you are authorized to act on behalf of the copyright owner.

Please ensure that all provided information is complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing your request.

Our Response to Valid DMCA Notices

Upon receipt of a complete and valid DMCA takedown notice, we will:

• Review the notice to confirm it meets all legal requirements under the DMCA.
• Promptly remove or disable access to the allegedly infringing computer game content from our platform.
• Notify the user or account holder who posted the content, providing them with a copy of the takedown notice, including your contact information, to facilitate communication.
• Inform the affected user of their right to submit a counter-notification if they believe their content was removed in error.

We strive to resolve all copyright disputes as swiftly and fairly as possible, balancing the interests of copyright owners and platform users.

Counter-Notification Procedure

If your content has been removed or disabled due to a DMCA notice, and you believe this action was mistaken or based on misidentification, you may file a counter-notification. This is a legal request for the restoration of your content.

Your counter-notification must include:

• Your signature: A physical or electronic signature affirming the authenticity of the notice.
• Identification of removed material: A description of the content that was removed or disabled and its previous location on the platform.
• Good faith belief statement: A declaration, under penalty of perjury, stating you believe the removal was due to a mistake or misidentification.
• Contact information: Your full name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address.
• Jurisdiction consent: A statement consenting to the jurisdiction of the federal district court in your location, or if outside the U.S., any jurisdiction where our platform is found, and agreeing to accept service of process from the original complainant.

After receiving a valid counter-notification, we will forward it to the complainant. Unless the complainant initiates legal action within 10 to 14 business days, we will restore the removed content.

Repeat Infringer Policy

To maintain a lawful and respectful environment, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts of users who repeatedly infringe on copyrights. This policy is essential for protecting developers’ rights and encouraging responsible participation in the computer gaming community.

Privacy and Information Disclosure

Please note that by submitting a DMCA notice or counter-notification, you consent to the disclosure of your personal information to the opposing party as required by law. We treat all personal data provided in connection with DMCA claims with strict confidentiality and use it only for the purpose of resolving copyright disputes.

Fair Use Considerations

Some uses of copyrighted material may qualify as “fair use” under applicable copyright law, particularly for purposes such as commentary, criticism, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research. However, fair use is complex and determined on a case-by-case basis.

If you are unsure whether your use qualifies as fair use or whether content infringes copyright, it is advisable to seek professional legal guidance.

Final Remarks

The computer gaming industry thrives on creativity and innovation, powered by millions of developers, artists, musicians, and players worldwide. Protecting intellectual property rights is essential to fostering continued growth and creativity.

Our DMCA policy is designed to protect creators’ rights while offering a clear, fair process for resolving disputes. We encourage all users and content creators to respect these rules and contribute to a thriving, respectful gaming community.

If you have questions about our DMCA policy or need assistance filing a notice or counter-notification, please contact our support team.