What is a copyright strike?
If you get a copyright strike, it means that a content owner requested the removal of their copyright-protected content from your video. We review the removal request, and if it appears to be valid we remove the video from YouTube (and issue a strike) to comply with copyright law.
Can a copyright strike be sent by mistake?
We review copyright removal requests to make sure they’re legitimate. Each year, we terminate tens of thousands of accounts that try to abuse our copyright tools and processes. If someone makes an invalid or mistaken claim against your content, you may file a counter notification.
Options for responding to copyright strikes
Wait for the strike to expire: Copyright strikes can expire after 90 days. You'll need to complete Copyright School for the strikes to start expiring.
If you believe your video was taken down due to an abusive, invalid or mistaken copyright strike, here's what you can do:
- Submit a Counter Notification: This is a legal request for YouTube to reinstate content that was removed due to a copyright removal request when you question the copyright claim. Be sure to include valid reasons why the copyright removal request was abusive, invalid or mistaken. YouTube cannot determine ownership or mediate on behalf of content owners. If you choose to submit a counter notification, consider the following:
- Document everything: Keep records of all communication, notices, and any evidence you have to support your case.
- Understand fair use: Familiarize yourself with fair use laws and guidelines.
- Contact the claimant directly: Try reaching out to the person or entity who filed the copyright strike. It's possible they made a mistake or are willing to retract the claim.
- Legal help: If the issue is complex, or if you're unsure about the process, seeking legal advice may be helpful. This may also be relevant if you’re concerned about disclosing your personal information to the claimant who removed your video. You may authorize a representative, like an attorney, to email a counter notification on your behalf to copyright@youtube.com.