[1][2][3][4][5] The event is intended as "a counterpoint to the pro-DRM message broadcast by powerful media and software companies"[3] and aims to draw attention to DRM's anti-consumer aspects.

[6] World Intellectual Property Day has been criticized by the activists from civil society organizations such as IP Justice and the Electronic Information for Libraries who consider it one-sided propaganda as the marketing materials associated with the event, provided by WIPO, "come across as unrepresentative of other views and events".

[2][3][10] During the International Day Against DRM, there are discussions and promotions of DRM-free media and technology.

[11] Companies that agree with the criticism of DRM have been known to offer discounts on products like DRM-free ebooks.

[12] In 2008 Defective by Design announced 35 consecutive Days Against DRM, each one warning the public against a different DRM-related product or service.