Most content creators would have to deal with copyright strikes or copyright claims, mainly on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and other platforms. Using copyrighted material unknowingly can result in copyright strikes or copyright claims despite the two terms being rather different.
A copyright claim (or Content ID claim) is when the copyright owner recognizes their content in a video but does not necessarily require it to be removed. A copyright strike, however, is an official legal complaint by the copyright owner, which can result in video takedowns, channel restrictions, or even account suspension.
This blog describe the major differences, implications, and how to deal with claims and strikes in a successful manner.
Introduction
Since the introduction of video-sharing platforms, the majority of creators use copyrighted music, images, or clips without even knowing the consequences of it being illegal. Sites such as YouTube employ an automated Content ID system to identify copyrighted content, while manual complaints lead to copyright strikes.
It is important for content creators to know the major difference between a copyright claim and a copyright strike in order not to suffer penalties, monetization problems, and even bans. While a copyright claim would only affect revenue-sharing, a copyright strike can have serious effects, including channel suspension.
What is a Copyright Claim?
A copyright claim or Content ID claim occurs when a content owner identifies their copyrighted content in a video and claims ownership. This does not incur a channel penalty but can result in monetization restrictions or demonetization of the video.
Main Features of a Copyright Claim
- The video stays live but could have monetization disabled or redirected to the copyright owner.
- It is not a legal proceeding and does not result in a channel penalty.
- The claimant may opt to block, mute, or monitor the performance of the video.
- The creator may dispute the claim if he feels that he has fair use rights or legitimate licenses.
How to Deal with a Copyright Claim?
- Accept the claim and let the copyright owner monetize the video.
- Edit or replace the copyrighted material (e.g., cut the music or edit the video).
- You can challenge the claim if the content is used under fair use, is properly licensed, or is owned by the creator.
A copyright claim does not hurt a channel but may impact monetization and viewership limitations.
What is a Copyright Strike?
A copyright strike is an official legal complaint made by a copyright owner, alleging that the content infringes copyright laws. In contrast to a claim, a copyright strike may result in video removal, channel restriction, or even account closure.
Key Features of a Copyright Strike
- The video is immediately removed from the platform.
- It is a severe offense that impacts a channel’s reputation.
- Ongoing copyright strikes may lead to suspension or permanent removal of the channel.
- The creator can be asked to take YouTube’s Copyright School after getting a strike.
How to Deal with a Copyright Strike?
- Ask for retraction – If the material was flagged inadvertently, reach out to the copyright holder to get the strike withdrawn.
- File a counter-notification – If you think the strike is unjust, you can contest it legally.
- Wait out the strike – YouTube deletes strikes after 90 days, assuming no other violation takes place.
Copyright strikes are different from copyright claims and come with serious implications and must be addressed seriously.
How to Stay Away from Copyright Claims and Strikes?
The content creators may stay away from copyright claims or strikes, by following these-
- Use Royalty-Free Music and Images – The various websites like YouTube provide free music libraries for content creators. Use the same to avoid the strike.
- Get Proper Licenses – Buy or obtain permission to use copyrighted materials in your content.
- Adhere to Fair Use Guidelines – Make sure that content is transformative, educational, or under fair use.
- Check Content Before Uploading – Utilize YouTube’s Content ID system or copyright-check tools to avoid the claims or strikes.
Knowing and obeying copyright laws prevents creators from facing unnecessary claims or strikes.
Key Differences Between Copyright Claim and Copyright Strike
A copyright strike and a copyright claim both involve copyright infringement but with varying consequences. A copyright claim is an automatic detection of a copyrighted item in a video by a system operated by YouTube called Content ID.
A copyright strike, however, is a formal legal complaint by the copyright holder, resulting in the immediate removal of the video.
The table below highlights the major differences between these two-
| Feature | Copyright Claim | Copyright Strike |
| Nature | Content ID system detects copyrighted material. | Formal legal complaint by the copyright owner. |
| Effect on Video | The video stays online but may have monetization restrictions. | The video is removed immediately. |
| Impact on Channel | There is no penalty, only impact on monetization on your channel. | It can lead to warnings, restrictions, or channel deletion. |
| Resolution Options | You can accept, edit, remove, or contest the claim on your content. | You can request retraction, or file a counter notification, or wait for 90 days. |
| Legal Consequences | There will be no legal impact. | It can lead to lawsuits if repeated or disputed incorrectly. |
Conclusion
A claim on copyright and a copyright strike are not the same thing. While a claim is only financial in its impact, a strike may cause dire penalties, such as video removals or channel termination. The creator should be very careful to use copyrighted content and always have the right or licenses.
By using royalty-free materials, being familiar with fair use, and regularly looking out for copyright infringement, artists can prevent themselves from being in trouble and having a thriving online existence.
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References
https://www.youtube.com/intl/ALL_in/howyoutubeworks/policies/copyrigt/
