How do DMCA Designated Agents work?

[tomld2]

I am researching how the DMCA agent system works. Can anyone who fills out their application with a $30 payment become an official DMCA agent and thus be able to process DMCA complaints for their websites?

[willjan]

I believe you can and it could be to your advantage, in the event of a conflict.

A lot of websites don't have a registered agent and it can complicate your responsibility in the event a copyright problem comes up.

Just be sure your contact information is kept up to date. I have issued DMCA notices to registered agents but their fax machine doesn't work. They may (the isp) then also become a copyright infringer having left the "safe harbor" provision of the DMCA.

willjan