VideoHerd
The YouTube Copyright Claim Process Simplified
Category: YouTube Content Strategy
The stress of receiving a copyright claim on your YouTube channel can be immense and confusing. Whether you're faced with a Content ID or classic copyright takedown notice, you're likely diving deep into YouTube documentation to determine your next steps.
We understand that battling it out in the copyright colosseum is daunting, and we're here to help. If you're serious about growing your channel and making a mark on YouTube, you must be prepared to respond effectively to copyright complaints. As you progress in your YouTube journey, they will inevitably surface. But fret not, because in this article, we'll acquaint you with all your copyright options.
What is a Copyright Claim on YouTube?
A copyright claim on YouTube can either be a copyright removal request or a Content ID claim. These are the two primary methods to assert ownership on YouTube. Let's break them down:
The Two Types of Copyright Claims on YouTube:
Copyright Takedown Notice:
Use Case:
If you're not a YouTube Partner and notice your copyrighted material being used on YouTube, the Copyright Takedown Notice comes into play. It allows anyone to report unauthorized use of their copyrighted material. On identifying such a breach, you can submit a copyright removal request, often referred to as a "copyright takedown notice". This is a formal request to delete content from YouTube due to copyright infringement.
Content ID Match:
Use Case:
For YouTube Partners with a substantial original portfolio, YouTube’s Content ID Match is invaluable. It 'sniffs out' unauthorized use of copyrighted material. Content ID is a proprietary tool that scans YouTube for copyright-protected content. When a match is found, the channel owner is notified, and then they decide the fate of the infringing content.
The copyright owner then has several options: - Block the content entirely or restrict its viewing in certain countries (usually due to licensing constraints). - Monetize: They might opt to run ads on the content, potentially sharing revenue with the uploader. Often, however, they retain all the revenue. - Track: Simply monitor viewership statistics, reserving the right to decide on action at a later date.
Defending Against a Copyright Claim on YouTube:
What if you genuinely believe that your content has been wrongfully claimed by Content ID or a copyright takedown notice? Thankfully, there's an array of steps you can take to counter this legal hurdle without possessing a law degree.
The strategy varies based on whether you've received a Takedown Notice or a Content ID Claim:
Combating a Wrongful Content ID Claim:
Let It Be: Sometimes, unintentional copyright breaches happen. In such cases, you might opt to do nothing. While this doesn’t result in a strike, there’s a possibility of lost views and monetization.
Start Editing: If you think the claim holds water, you can make modifications to bypass a full video re-upload:
Edit and trim the claimed segment.
If music is the problem, the YouTube Audio Library is your friend. Replace the contentious tune.
If it's about a specific audio segment, mute it. You have the choice to mute just the song or the entire audio.
Sharing Revenue on Music Claims: Part of the YouTube Partner Program? If your video’s music is claimed, consider proposing a revenue-sharing arrangement with the music publisher. You can facilitate this through the YouTube Studio backend, a handy way to amicably address Content ID claims.
Challenge The Claim: If you’re certain about your content's legitimacy, brace yourself to dispute the claim. Remember:
Understand monetization nuances during disputes.
YouTube won’t mediate the dispute. Hence, your reasons for disputing need to be robust.
Your justification for disputing must be unshakeable. An unfounded dispute might trigger the content's removal or a Copyright Takedown Request. Tread cautiously and educate yourself. For a comprehensive understanding, check out our
Guide to Copyright on YouTube. If your challenge isn't authentic, prepare for a potential copyright strike.
Appealing a Content ID Claim:
Did you defend your video against a Content ID claim and it's still held? You can escalate with an appeal. This is essentially your last stand against a Content ID claim. The appeal process is as follows:
You initiate by disputing the Content ID claim.
If not released, you’re informed of the upheld claim.
You can then submit an appeal, prompting the claimant to review their decision and your rationale. This takes the responsibility away from YouTube and can sometimes be a thorny path for creators.
A persistent claimant might reinstate the claim or proceed with a Copyright Takedown Notice.
If you choose to escalate after a reinstated claim, the claimant has 7 days to respond. If they don’t, your content is released. Otherwise, they might release your claim or initiate a formal copyright takedown process, which can culminate in a copyright strike against your channel.
Need Assistance with a YouTube Copyright Claim?
If you're caught in the crossfire of potential copyright strikes, we're here for you. Reach out for a free consultation on optimal next steps during a copyright dispute. To all creators, remember this guide when confronted with a copyright claim, and continue to innovate and produce content. And always, keep an eye on your YouTube notifications!
