UK Government Updates Process for Complaints on Technological Protection Measures Impacting Copyright Exceptions

Technological Protection Measures (TPMs), also known as copy protection measures or Digital Rights Management (DRM), are widely employed to safeguard copyright works. Common examples include encryption on DVDs, which help copyright owners control how their content is accessed and copied. UK legislation explicitly protects the rights of copyright holders to use TPMs to prevent piracy and enable diverse content distribution methods.

However, TPMs can sometimes interfere with activities that are permitted under copyright exceptions. These exceptions allow certain uses of copyrighted material without the need for permission from the rights holder. Recognizing this potential conflict, UK law establishes a complaints process designed to ensure that TPMs do not unreasonably prevent individuals from benefiting from these exceptions.

The complaints process provides a formal avenue for individuals to raise concerns if they believe a TPM is unjustly restricting their lawful use of copyrighted works. Complainants can submit their grievances using either a Notice of complaint form or an online form, both accessible through the government’s official publications.

Significant updates to the complaints process have been implemented recently. On 23 July 2026, the UK government introduced a new online service titled 'TPMs Notice of complaint to the Secretary of State,' streamlining the submission of complaints.

Earlier, on 18 May 2021, the complaints process information was revised to reflect changes following the Brexit transition. At that time, the traditional Portable Document Format (PDF) notice of complaint form was replaced with an Open Document Text (ODT) version to enhance accessibility for users.

The government’s guidance outlines when and how complaints may be made, advises on additional steps complainants should consider, and highlights factors that may influence the outcome of a complaint. This ensures transparency and clarity for all parties involved.

TPMs play a crucial role in protecting copyright owners’ interests, but the UK’s balanced approach through this complaints mechanism safeguards the public’s ability to exercise lawful exceptions. The updated online service and accessible complaint forms demonstrate the government’s commitment to maintaining this balance.

Further information and the relevant complaint forms are available in the Documents section of the UK government’s official website. Users are also invited to participate in a survey to help improve the GOV.UK platform.

This complaints process exemplifies the UK’s ongoing efforts to adapt copyright enforcement mechanisms in a digital environment while respecting lawful user rights.