A central repository server contains a reference list of Uniform Resource Locators (URLs) for copyright infringing or disputed material located on the Internet, with an indication of whether the material is categorized as infringing or disputed. A filter/transcode program operates with the reference list to test content for infringing links, comparing the URLs for links within the content to those within the reference list. When a match is determined, the category of the link within the reference list is checked. If the link is an infringing link, the filter/transcode program may automatically remove the link from the content. If the link is disputed, the filter/transcode program may modify the link to include a warning that the link may be directed to infringing material. Comments may be added to the tested content by the filter/transcode program to certify the test results. Additions to the reference list may be submitted by the copyright owner, subject to verification. Initial classification of links as disputed until infringement can be verified allow the reference list to be considered reliable by content builders and publishers.