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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIt is also important to understand the difference between a copyright claim and a copyright strike. In many situations with a copyright claim, the content can remain online, although monetisation or visibility may be affected. A copyright strike on the other hand is for much more serious. These are generally caused by intentional or substantial copyright abuse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Option 1: leave the claim in place<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Depending on the conditions of the claim (i.e. is it being demonetized or can the music be replaced with copyright free music) leaving a claim in place is often the easiest option. On platforms such as YouTube, copyright owners choose how they want the claim to be resolved. Often, they will opt to redirect the video\u2019s monetisation to themselves instead of muting or blocking it entirely. Unless you\u2019re expecting a substantial number of views, this is unlikely to have a significant impact. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the video remains publicly viewable and the claim does not restrict the content in a major way, some creators simply accept the claim and move on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, regular claims, for example if you relying on using copyrighted music, can become a problem over time. Claims have a limiting effect over revenue opportunities and can affect the professional image of a growing channel. This can effect any potential brand partnerships, going forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Option 2: Dispute the copyright claim<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you believe you have the legal right to use the music, you can dispute the claim through the platform. You should only attempt this if you believe you have a strong case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This may apply if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- You own the music yourself<\/li>
- You purchased a valid licence<\/li>
- The music was labeled as royalty free<\/li>
- The claim was made in error<\/li>
- Your usage falls under fair use or fair dealing laws
(check this post for more info on fair use:<\/em> Fair use policy and YouTube: What content creators need to know)<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\nBefore submitting a dispute its crucial that you have supporting evidence to help you fight your case. Filing disputes without having a legitimate claim can lead to further complications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Disputing a claim: Proving you have a licence<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you acquired a license for the music that is being claimed in your video, providing proof of that licence should resolve the issue quickly. Platforms may ask creators to submit evidence such as: licence certificates, purchase receipts, subscription details, or written permission from the rights holder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is why it is important to use an established and trusted source for licensed music. Professional production music libraries such as RouteNote Licensing <\/a>are considered best practice because they provide clear licensing documentation whenever you download a track. Downloading music from random websites or unofficial YouTube channels does not always guarantee that the music is properly licensed or safe to use commercially.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keeping organised records of your licences is also a good habit for creators working across multiple platforms and projects. Create a folder and store all the license documents in it so you are ready to dispute any case, should it arise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Appealing or escalating a dispute<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf you dispute the claim and it is rejected and you’re convinced the claim is invalid, you may be able to submit an appeal or request a manual review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At this stage the situation becomes more serious because you may have to make a legal declaration. Counter notifications in particular can become formal legal matters. You must therefore be sure that your case is valid and you have strong evidence supporting their rights to use the music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You should think hard over taking such escalatory action. While you may think you have a legitimate case, are the negative implications of a copyright claim worth the effort and risk involved in fighting a copyright claim. Sometimes it’s best to just move on and create new content…making sure you acquire and use legitimate royalty free music going forward. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The solution: Using royalty-free Music and whitelisting your channel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The best long-term solution to avoid future claims is to source music exclusively from a properly licensed royalty free music platform. Subscription services like RouteNote Licensing<\/a> provide affordable access to production music. You can then use this music confidently across online content including video, social media posts, podcasts, advertisements, and client projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whitelisting your channel is the sure fire way to insure you will never receive another claim. Some licensing providers, such as RouteNote Licensing, allow creators to register their channels so automated systems recognise them, automatically approving any usage. This reduce the risk of receiving false claims in the future. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As copyright detection systems become ever more advanced, creators need to carefully consider what audio they use in their videos. By using proper licensed music you protect your channels monetisation and prevent any interruptions in your scheduling, helping to build a more sustainable and professional long-term content strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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