Creators should only upload videos that they have made or that they're authorised to use. That means that they should not upload videos that they didn't make, or use content in their videos that someone else owns the copyright to, such as music tracks, snippets of copyrighted programmes or videos made by other users, without necessary authorisations.
Please find below the most frequently asked questions regarding copyright strikes on YouTube:
WHAT IS A COPYRIGHT STRIKE?
If a copyright owner submits a valid DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act) complaint through YouTube's webform, they take down that video and apply a copyright strike. If a user gets three copyright strikes in 90 days, their account, along with any associated channels, will be terminated.
Content ID works differently. If a match between a reference file and a new upload is found, a 'claim' is made. Based on the preference selected by the Content ID owner, YouTube will apply a policy to track, monetise or block, but will not issue a copyright strike.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I RECEIVE A COPYRIGHT STRIKE?
If your channel receives a copyright strike, it acts as a warning. The first time you get a copyright strike, you'll need to go through YouTube's Copyright School and assessment. This helps educate creators and assist with their understanding of copyright and how it's enforced at YouTube.
Copyright strikes may affect your ability to monetise. In addition, if your live stream is removed for copyright reasons, your access to live streaming will be restricted for 90 days.
If you get three copyright strikes:
- Your account, along with any associated channels, is subject to termination.
- All of the videos uploaded to your account will be removed.
- You can't create new channels.
If you are part of an MCN (Multi-Channel Network) like Label Worx, then your strike will also have an adverse effect on the network. If strikes are not taken seriously and resolved as soon as possible, it will jeopardize your networks ability to keep your channel connected.
HOW DO I GET INFO ABOUT THE STRIKE?
You can get information on the strike you have received directly from Creator Studio.
- Sign in to YouTube Studio.
- From the left-hand menu, click Content.
- Filter
for Copyright claims.
- Hover over 'Copyright claim' in the Restrictions column and click SEE DETAILS.
HOW CAN I RESOLVE THE STRIKE?
There are 3 ways that a copyright strike can be resolved on YouTube.
- Wait for it to expire: Copyright strikes expire after 90 days. If it's your first strike, you'll need to complete Copyright School.
- Get a retraction: You can get in touch with the person who claimed your video and ask them to retract their claim of copyright infringement.
- Submit a counter notification: If you think your video was removed by mistake or qualifies as fair use, you can submit a counter notification.