Getting a copyright strike on YouTube can be scary. It may block your video, stop you from earning money, or even close your channel. But don’t worry! In this research, we’ll explain step-by-step how to fix a copyright strike on YouTube, avoid future strikes, and protect your content. Whether you’re new or have many YouTube Subscribers, this research will help you keep your channel safe and active.
What is a Copyright Strike on YouTube?
A copyright strike on YouTube happens when someone reports that you used their content without permission. This can include videos, songs, images, or even a few seconds of sound. YouTube checks the report, and if it’s true, you get a strike on your channel.
If you get one copyright strike on YouTube, it’s a warning. But if you get three strikes in 90 days, your channel can be removed forever. That’s why it’s important to fix it fast.
Common Reasons for Copyright Strikes on YouTube
Before fixing a copyright strike on YouTube, you need to know why it happened. Here are the top reasons:
- Using music without a license
- Uploading full movies or TV shows
- Using video clips from others without permission
- Copying another creator’s work
These mistakes are common, especially for new YouTubers trying to grow their YouTube Subscribers quickly. But now let’s look at how you can fix it.
Steps to Fix Copyright Strike on YouTube
1. Read the Strike Details
When you get a copyright strike on YouTube, you will receive an email from YouTube. It will include:
- The name of the copyright owner
- The video that caused the strike
- The reason for the strike
Carefully read everything. Don’t delete the video right away. Understand what content caused the strike.
2. Contact the Copyright Owner
If you believe you used the content fairly or by mistake, you can reach out to the copyright owner. You can ask them kindly to remove the strike. If they agree, they can send a retraction to YouTube.
How to request a retraction:
- Use the email address listed in the strike notice
- Be polite and explain your situation
- Promise not to use the content again without permission
This method works best if you have a small channel or few YouTube Subscribers, and you genuinely made a mistake.
3. Submit a Counter Notification
If you believe the strike is a mistake or you used the content legally (like Fair Use), you can file a counter notification. Only use this if you are 100% sure the strike is wrong.
Steps:
- Go to YouTube Studio > Copyright
- Click on “Submit Counter Notification”
- Fill in your name, email, and explain why the strike is wrong
YouTube will review your request. The copyright owner has 10–14 days to respond. If they don’t, your video will be restored, and the copyright strike on YouTube will be removed.
4. Wait for the Strike to Expire
If you can’t fix it, don’t worry. A copyright strike on YouTube lasts for 90 days. After that, it disappears from your account—if you don’t get another one.
While waiting:
- Avoid uploading copyrighted content
- Focus on original videos to keep your YouTube Subscribers happy
Tips to Avoid Copyright Strike on YouTube
Avoiding a copyright strike on YouTube is better than fixing it. Follow these tips:
Use royalty-free music: Sites like YouTube Audio Library, Epidemic Sound, or Artlist are safe.
Create your own content: Shoot your own videos and record your own voice.
Give credit: Sometimes, creators allow use if you credit them properly.
Use Creative Commons: Filter YouTube searches to “Creative Commons” to find usable videos.
Don’t copy thumbnails: Even images can lead to a strike.
By following these tips, you’ll protect your channel and build trust with your YouTube Subscribers.
What Happens if You Get Multiple Copyright Strikes?
If you get a second copyright strike on YouTube, your ability to monetize or stream live may be taken away. A third strike? Your whole channel could be removed.
To avoid that:
- Fix each strike fast
- Don’t upload videos that could cause more trouble
- Inform your YouTube Subscribers about the issue honestly
How to Fix a Demonetized YouTube Channel?
Sometimes, a copyright strike on YouTube leads to demonetization. That means you stop earning money from your videos. Here’s how to fix it:
Check the reason: Go to YouTube Studio and find the message about demonetization.
Fix copyright problems: Remove any videos with copyright content.
Improve original content: Make your videos more useful and creative.
Request a review: Once your channel is ready, apply for monetization again.
Follow YouTube rules: Stick to the Community Guidelines and Copyright Policy.
By fixing your issues, you’ll regain trust and grow your YouTube Subscribers and income.
How Fair Use Works
Fair Use is a law that allows you to use parts of copyrighted work for certain reasons like:
- Commentary
- Criticism
- Teaching
- News reporting
But be careful! Fair Use is complex and doesn’t always protect you. Even if your video has Fair Use content, someone can still give you a copyright strike on YouTube. Use short clips, add your own voice, and never upload full videos.
What to Do After Fixing the Strike
Once you fix a copyright strike on YouTube, keep your channel clean and active. Here’s what to do next:
Create more original videos: Keep your YouTube Subscribers engaged with fresh content.
Use music and images with a license: Don’t risk another strike.
Stay updated: YouTube rules change often. Read updates in your Creator Studio.
Backup your videos: Save your work in case your channel is taken down.
Can YouTube Subscribers See Your Strikes?
No, your copyright strike on YouTube is private. Your YouTube Subscribers won’t see it unless you talk about it. But if you lose features like live streaming or monetization, they might notice. So, it’s good to be honest if your content changes.
Fixing a copyright strike on YouTube is not the end of the world. Most creators go through it at some point. The key is to act fast, stay calm, and learn from your mistake.