TL;DR
A longtime author and web developer says Google declined a DMCA removal request for a pirated copy of his book, questioned his authority to file the notice, and asked for additional proof of copyright ownership. After providing evidence, the author reports Google still refused to remove the URLs and advised resolving the issue with the site owner.
What happened
Jeff Starr, a web developer and author, says he filed a standard DMCA takedown with Google after finding a pirated copy of his book in search results. According to his account on his blog, Google replied that it was unsure he was authorized to submit the complaint and that only the copyright owner or an authorized representative may file such requests. After Starr asserted his authorship and provided links, Search Console verification details and other evidence, Google reportedly asked him to "explain further the basis" for his ownership without specifying what proof would satisfy them. After additional follow-up, Starr says Google ultimately declined to take action on the listed URLs and suggested he contact the site webmaster directly or pursue legal action; Google also pointed to its Refresh Outdated Content Tool for any later updates. Starr characterizes the interaction as a dramatic change from earlier, faster DMCA responses he experienced.
Why it matters
- Creators rely on search engines to remove infringing content; changes in takedown handling can affect their ability to protect revenue and control distribution.
- If major platforms raise verification hurdles for DMCA requests, smaller authors and publishers may face increased time and cost to enforce their rights.
- Public trust in search engines' responsiveness to copyright claims influences perceptions of platform accountability and stewardship of creators' content.
- Guidance from search platforms that directs rights holders to resolve disputes with webmasters shifts the burden onto individual creators.
Key facts
- Jeff Starr filed a DMCA removal request with Google after finding a pirated copy of his book in search results.
- Google initially responded that it was unsure Starr was authorized to submit the copyright removal request, noting only copyright owners or authorized representatives may file.
- When Starr replied asserting authorship, Google asked him to "explain further the basis" for his copyright ownership without providing specific instructions for proving identity or ownership.
- Starr supplied evidence including links to his sites and said he had verified ownership of those sites in Google Search Console using the same email address.
- After further communication, Google declined to take action on the URLs and advised Starr to contact the website owner or pursue legal action; it also referenced its Refresh Outdated Content Tool.
- Starr described the experience as a departure from his prior encounters with Google, where DMCA notices were processed quickly and without significant hurdles.
- The post was published on Perishable Press and updated January 5, 2026.
- A commenter quoted Starr suggesting Google might be using pirated material to train AI models; that assertion appears as Starr's opinion in the comments.
What to watch next
- Whether Google will clarify or publish more specific requirements for proving copyright ownership when it queries a DMCA filer — not confirmed in the source.
- If Google will change its practice for handling takedown requests that cite verified Search Console ownership — not confirmed in the source.
- Any policy adjustments or public statements from Google addressing concerns that its takedown process has become more burdensome for individual creators — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- DMCA: The Digital Millennium Copyright Act, a U.S. law that includes a process for copyright holders to request removal of infringing content from online platforms.
- De-indexing: The removal of a page or URL from a search engine's index so it no longer appears in search results.
- Copyright owner: The person or entity that holds the legal rights to a creative work and can authorize its use or seek remedies for infringement.
- Google Search Console: A set of tools and reports that helps website owners monitor and maintain their site's presence in Google Search, including site verification.
- Webmaster: The person or team responsible for maintaining and managing a website; often the contact point for content disputes on that site.
Reader FAQ
Did Google remove the pirated URLs after the DMCA request?
According to the author's account, Google declined to take action on the listed URLs.
Did Google explain how to prove identity or ownership?
The author reports Google asked him to "explain further the basis" for ownership but did not specify what proof would be required.
What did Google recommend instead of removing the content?
Google told the author to contact the site's webmaster directly, pursue legal action if necessary, and use the Refresh Outdated Content Tool after content is changed.
Is it confirmed that Google uses pirated books to train AI models?
Not confirmed in the source.
Perishable Press Web Dev + WordPress + Security BBQ Pro: The fastest firewall to protect your WordPress. Google Broke My Heart ♦ Posted by Jeff Starr in News UPDATED JANUARY…
Sources
- Google broke my heart
- Supreme Court Rejects Challenge to Google's Online Library
- Challenge to Google Books Is Declined by Supreme Court
- Authors Guild, Inc. v. Google, Inc.
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