If your Classic Google Site contains copyrighted content without permission, but Google has not yet taken it down, and you haven’t migrated your site to the new Google Sites platform, several risks and issues can arise. It’s important to understand these before continuing.
Rightsholders can file DMCA takedown notices against your site if it contains unauthorized copyrighted material.
Even if your site hasn’t been taken down yet, complaints can accumulate and lead to eventual removal.
Google actively enforces copyright policies. If your site receives multiple copyright strikes or violations, it may be unpublished or permanently removed.
Since Classic Sites are being phased out, Google may prioritize enforcement actions on legacy sites.
Without migration, you cannot edit or manage your Classic Site easily, which makes addressing copyright issues difficult.
You will lack access to updated tools for removing infringing content or responding to complaints.
Google plans to deprecate Classic Sites fully. If you haven’t migrated, your site risks being unpublished or deleted, losing all content — including any attempts to fix copyright problems.
Repeated copyright infringements can lead to account suspension or termination of your Google Account.
Legal action from copyright owners is possible if unauthorized use continues.
Proactively review your site and remove any content that may infringe copyrights.
Use properly licensed or original content only.
Migration allows better management and updated compliance tools.
It ensures your site remains accessible and editable.
Follow Google’s procedures to address copyright complaints and file counter notifications if appropriate.
**WARNING:** Ignoring copyright issues on a Classic Google Site — especially one not migrated — can lead to permanent site removal and possible account suspension. Always address copyright concerns immediately and migrate your site to stay in compliance and retain control.
Google’s Copyright Policy
DMCA Takedown Information
Migrate Classic Google Sites
Google Sites Help Community