What is the DMCAs software filtering exemption?
Lists of web sites filtered by software programs, generally designed to restrict Internet users from visiting certain web sites and protect children from inappropriate material, were exempted. The Copyright Office found that the criticism and commentary on the efficacy of such software is impossible without the ability to circumvent those programs. Many of these “blocked sites” are identified in encrypted lists within the software. In order for a party to learn if their site is one of the “blocked sites” it is necessary for these lists to be accessed and searched. The Copyright Office noted that there was no other legitimate way to obtain access to this information other than in digital form.
