Intentionally removing, altering, or circumventing a digital or visible watermark applied to copyrighted content can constitute a direct violation of intellectual property laws, digital copyright regulations (such as the Digital Millennium Copyright Act), and contractual terms of use. If the watermark serves to protect copyrighted photographs, software, or media, unauthorized removal or falsification of copyright management information exposes individuals and entities to severe legal liabilities, copyright infringement lawsuits, and statutory damages.