What do I do if my YouTube video has a Content ID claim?

A Content ID claim is automatically generated when a video uploaded to YouTube matches audio in YouTube’s Content ID system.

As part of our distribution service, if you opt into Content ID, your original content will be delivered to YouTube’s Content ID system to help protect your release.

Keep in mind:

  • When a claimed video is tracked or monetised, it remains viewable on YouTube with the active Content ID claim. Most copyright owners choose to track or monetise videos, rather than block them.
  • Content ID claims are different from copyright removal requests and copyright strikes.
  • Content ID claims affect individual videos but usually don’t impact your channel or account.
  • YouTube will notify you by email if your video receives a Content ID claim.

How to check for Content ID claims in YouTube Studio:

  1. Sign in to YouTube Studio.
  2. From the left-hand menu, select Content.
  3. Click the filter bar and select Copyright.
  4. Find the video you’re interested in.
  5. In the Restrictions column, hover over Copyright.

                        a. Copyright: The video has a Content ID claim.

                        b. Copyright – Takedown: The video is affected by a copyright removal request, (also known as a ‘takedown’).

  6.   For more details, click SEE DETAILS to open the Video copyright details page.

Please note - We advise against opting into Content ID for future releases if you plan to upload your own content to YouTube.