We are aware of US companies such as Scribd.com that allow complete, in-copyright texts to be uploaded to their websites. This is being done very often, it seems, without the permission of the copyright owners.



We are monitoring developments and our advice to members is to get in touch with your publisher who should agree to instruct the website to implement its takedown procedure.

Alternatively, you can take action yourself following the procedure below. Members will have seen Christopher Priest’s practical comments in a letter published in the spring issue of The Author. Members can read this letter by visiting the Guides and articles section in the members area. The letter is listed under ‘Contracts and other legal matters.’

Scribd.com claims that it complies with the US Digital Millennium Copyright Act ("DMCA") of 1998, and is not acting illegally. Full details of its copyright infringement takedown notification policy can be viewed by clicking here.

For further press coverage about this story, click on the following links:

• Guardian article
• Sky News