For YouTube content creators, copyright laws can feel like a minefield. One wrong move, and you could face a copyright strike that impacts your channel’s growth—or worse, have your videos taken down entirely. At Landry Legal, PLLC, we specialize in helping creators understand and navigate these complex laws, allowing them to focus on what they do best: creating content.
In this blog, we’ll break down the essential copyright laws that YouTube creators need to know and provide tips on how to avoid strikes and claims that could threaten your channel.
What Is a Copyright Strike on YouTube?
A copyright strike occurs when a copyright owner believes that you’ve used their content in your video without permission. This could be anything from a song, a clip of a movie, or even a piece of artwork. When a strike is issued, YouTube may take down your video, and if you accumulate three strikes within 90 days, your channel could be permanently removed from the platform.
The Difference Between Copyright Strikes and Content ID Claims
Before diving into copyright law, it’s important to understand the distinction between copyright strikes and Content ID claims. Content ID claims are automatically generated when YouTube’s system detects copyrighted content in your video. Instead of issuing a strike, the copyright owner can monetize your video or block it in certain regions.
While Content ID claims don’t pose the same threat as strikes, they can still affect your ability to generate revenue from your content.
How to Avoid Copyright Strikes and Claims
To keep your channel safe from strikes and claims, follow these key principles:
1. Use Copyright-Free or Licensed Music
Music is one of the most common reasons YouTube videos receive copyright strikes. If you’re using popular songs in your videos without permission, you’re likely to run into problems.
To avoid this, use copyright-free music libraries like YouTube’s Audio Library or services that offer royalty-free tracks. Alternatively, you can obtain a license from the copyright holder, giving you the legal right to use the music in your videos.
2. Understand Fair Use
Fair use is one of the most misunderstood concepts in copyright law. It allows creators to use copyrighted material without permission under certain conditions, such as commentary, criticism, or parody. However, fair use is a gray area and depends on factors like the purpose of the use and its effect on the market value of the original work.
If you’re claiming fair use, make sure your content transforms the original work and provides added value, rather than simply reusing it. Even then, there’s no guarantee that your video will be safe from claims.
3. Avoid Using Clips Without Permission
Using clips from movies, TV shows, or other YouTube videos without permission is a quick way to receive a copyright strike. Even brief snippets of a few seconds can be problematic. If you need to include a clip, consider reaching out to the rights holder for permission, or look for royalty-free stock footage to use instead.
4. Create Original Content
The safest way to avoid copyright issues is to create original content. This includes filming your own footage, recording your own music, and designing your own graphics. The more original work you produce, the less likely you are to face copyright claims.
5. Use Proper Licensing for Images
Just like music, using images without proper licensing can lead to copyright issues. If you’re using stock photos or graphics in your thumbnails or videos, make sure they are licensed for commercial use. There are many royalty-free image websites available, such as Unsplash or Pexels, that offer high-quality images for free.
What to Do if You Receive a Copyright Strike
If you receive a copyright strike, don’t panic. Here are a few steps you can take:
- Remove or Edit the Video: If you believe the strike is valid, you can either remove the video or edit it to remove the copyrighted content.
- Submit a Counter-Notification: If you believe the strike is a mistake or falls under fair use, you can submit a counter-notification. Be aware that submitting a false counter-notification can lead to legal action from the copyright owner.
- Contact the Copyright Owner: In some cases, you may be able to resolve the issue directly with the copyright owner by negotiating a license or requesting permission to use their content.
Conclusion
Navigating copyright laws as a YouTube creator can be challenging, but by understanding the basics and following best practices, you can reduce the risk of strikes and claims. At Landry Legal, PLLC, we’re here to help creators protect their channels and avoid costly legal disputes. If you need assistance with a copyright issue, contact us today to learn how we can help.
