Copyright Office Opens Public Comment Period for Digital Lock Exemptions
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Table of Contents
The Library of Congress Copyright Office has started the tenth round of its three-year review process. This proceeding determines which specific uses of copyrighted digital works are allowed to bypass security measures, often called “digital locks.” These exemptions allow people to legally circumvent access controls for certain non-infringing purposes, such as repairing devices or conducting security research.
Why it matters: This matters because it defines what you can legally do with software, e-books, video games, and other digital media after purchase. Without these exemptions, actions like switching phone carriers, modifying smart home devices, or preserving obsolete software could technically violate copyright law. While this specific notice is mostly administrative, the final rules determine the practical boundaries of fair use in a locked-down digital environment.
Who it affects
- Owners of smartphones, computers, and other connected devices who modify their own hardware or software
This notice comes from the Copyright Office within the Library of Congress; check the Federal Register entry at copyright.gov/1201 for full details before relying on this summary.
Agency: Library of Congress, Copyright Office, Library of Congress
Source: Federal Register — read the official document