For Microsoft, posting a link to the official download page of Windows 8’s Release to Manufacturer (RTM) download page is worthy of a DMCA takedown request.
That is, at least, the experience of Hardware Canucks.
In mid-August a user of Hardware Canucks’ forums posted a link to Microsoft’s own download page for the Windows 8 RTM release. In response, Hardware Canucks received a DMCA takedown request via Google.
A number of other hardware forums have received similar requests for hosting Windows 8 screenshots.
When asked for comment by Hardware Canucks, a Microsoft spokesperson said that, “Microsoft’s anti-piracy programs target links to infringing copies of our software.”
“We take reports of inaccurate DMCA notices seriously,” continued Microsoft senior spokesperson Mark Lamb. “We will investigate disputed notices upon receipt. If the sites do not contain links to infringing copies of our software, we will contact Google about reinstating the search results.”
