After his image was shared on a porn site, this founder found inspiration for an AI startup idea

Tech founder Dan Purcell, CEO of Ceartas DMCA, has raised $4.5 million in a Seed round to combat the unauthorized sharing of private videos on porn sites. Purcell’s motivation stemmed from a personal experience where intimate videos with a former partner ended up online without his knowledge.

Ceartas DMCA, founded in 2021 by Purcell and Jonny Smyth, utilizes AI technology to protect content creators and brands from piracy. The platform scans digital platforms to identify and remove unauthorized content, including deepfakes, significantly reducing visibility on Google by 98%.

Purcell shared his personal story, stating that after discovering the videos online, he struggled to find a solution tailored to individuals rather than large enterprises. This led him to develop Ceartas DMCA, which automatically issues legal notices under the DMCA to remove pirated content.

The startup has already signed partnerships with platforms like OnlyFans and Fanfix, aiming to expand its services to include protection against counterfeit merchandise. Purcell emphasized that the service is fully automated and powered by AI, ensuring accuracy in issuing legal notices.

Ceartas DMCA faces competition in the brand protection space, but its AI-driven approach sets it apart. The recent funding round attracted support from notable angels in the gaming, content creation, music, and television sectors, highlighting the industry’s recognition of the importance of protecting digital content.

With the rise of deepfakes and unauthorized content sharing, Ceartas DMCA’s innovative solution offers a promising way to safeguard creators and brands in the digital landscape. The company’s success in securing funding and partnerships underscores the growing demand for effective anti-piracy measures in the online world.