Details
- Vector type:
- Copy Attack
- Risk level:
- Moderate
- Impact level:
- Moderate to High
The mechanics of this type of attack are almost frighteningly simple: You copy your target’s high-value content and republish it on a Burner-Domain, then you file a DMCA claim against your victim. The intent here is to get content removed, even if it’s just for the short term. This type of attack is particularly effective when used just before peak times, such as Black Friday or Cyber Monday.
Defense
Not only is there no defense against this type of attack, but this kind of thing constitutes an annual problem, with attacks routinely being carried out against smaller e-commerce operators just before peak sales times. What’s more, the deck is stacked against small and medium business, as the DMCA system operates on a “Guilty until proven Innocent” basis, so even if you manage to get the DMCA takedown remediated within two or three days, it can prove harmful or fatal to your business, if it occurs at exactly the wrong time.
Other than that, your only defenses are:
- Not having a history of DMCA content theft claims being filed against you.
- Filing a counter-claim as soon as the attack happens.