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Copyright Blog

Online Learning Service Denies Copyright Infringement Claims

Course Hero Denies Knowledge of Continuing Infringement

In October, we reported that Post University, a for-profit university located in Waterbury, Connecticut, filed a complaint claiming copyright infringement, trademark infringement, violations of the DMCA, and related violations of law by online service provider Course Hero. Course Hero has now filed its answer and denies many of Post University's allegations.

Course Hero asserts numerous affirmative defenses against Post University, including failure to state a claim, fair use, and safe harbor protections through the DMCA. Although Course Hero does not dispute much of the factual background Post University asserted in its complaint, Course Hero claims that it is not aware of any continuing instances of infringement. Course Hero further denies that the previews it provides customers of documents are derivative works.

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In its answer, Course Hero states that it, "complies with the DMCA by expeditiously removing and/or disabling access to content identified by a DMCA-compliant notice." It further notes that it, "has no actual knowledge that material or activity on its system or network is infringing."

The court has yet to rule on the pleadings. We will be sure to keep you posted on any future developments.