We often associate YouTube with a platform for sharing videos with a wide audience. However, it can also serve as a useful tool for backing up or privately sharing videos, as long as you adhere to the platform’s copyright guidelines.
According to David Gewirtz’s explanation on ZDNET, YouTube’s Content ID checks still apply to videos uploaded as private (accessible only by the uploader) or unlisted (viewable by anyone with a link or if they appear in public playlists).
The scanning of unlisted and private videos can actually benefit professional content creators. They can upload a video as private to ensure it passes YouTube’s Content ID checks before making it public. This allows them to make adjustments if necessary and avoid demonetization or severe copyright infringements. However, this can be a significant inconvenience for users who simply want to share videos with a select group of friends or upload a school project for easy viewing.
Typically, if your content triggers YouTube’s Content ID checks, you receive a warning. However, if the copyright holder takes action, it can result in the removal of your video or even a dreaded copyright strike. Copyright strikes are a serious matter because accumulating three strikes against your account will lead to permanent deletion of your channel. This means you will be prohibited from uploading any further content, and all previously uploaded content will be inaccessible unless you appeal the removal.
Fortunately, there are ways to avoid copyright issues on your private and unlisted YouTube videos.
How to avoid Copyright Flags and Strikes against unlisted or private YouTube videos.
To avoid copyright flags and strikes against unlisted or private YouTube videos, it is important to adhere to YouTube’s copyright guidelines. According to YouTube’s Copyright & Fair Use policy, creators should only upload videos that they have either created themselves or have the necessary authorization to use. This means avoiding uploading videos created by others or using copyrighted content such as music tracks, snippets of copyrighted programs, or videos made by other users without proper authorization.
While it is highly unlikely that YouTube would flag a privately-uploaded family video, if you create a project that includes copyrighted music or footage, you may trigger the Content ID checks.
Fortunately, YouTube’s automated system checks videos during the upload process and alerts you to any copyright issues, allowing you to address them promptly and avoid any potential consequences. However, it’s important to note that YouTube’s Content ID checks are ongoing, and they can retroactively flag unlisted or private videos even if they initially passed the checks during the upload process.
If your video is flagged, there are steps you can take to resolve the issue and avoid receiving a warning or strike.
What to do if your unlisted or private YouTube video is flagged
If your unlisted or private YouTube video is flagged for copyright infringement, there are several options available to address the issue:
- Appeal the copyright strike: If you believe that the video was flagged in error or falls within the scope of “fair use,” you can submit an appeal. YouTube’s Copyright Exceptions policy provides general guidelines on fair use. YouTube will review your appeal and inform you of the decision within a few days.
- Delete or edit the video: If you prefer not to go through the appeals process or if your appeal is denied, you can edit the video using YouTube Studio’s editing tools. Although the editing options are limited, you can trim footage, mute or replace audio. Alternatively, you can delete the video from YouTube Studio and edit it using your preferred editing software. After editing, you can re-upload a new version for review. Another option is to simply remove the video and keep it off YouTube entirely.
- Explore other video hosting sites: Consider uploading your personal videos to alternative video hosting platforms such as Vimeo, Daily Motion, or The Internet Archive. Keep in mind that these platforms also have copyright restrictions, file size limitations, and some may require payment for certain features.
- Utilize cloud storage services: Cloud storage services like Google Photos/Drive, Dropbox, and iCloud offer a reliable solution for backing up your videos. You can share links with others, allowing them to watch the videos in their browsers. Additionally, videos stored on cloud platforms often maintain better visual quality compared to YouTube due to compression. Note that free users may have storage space limitations, and if you require more space, you may need to purchase additional storage.
- Opt for physical storage: Another option is to save your videos on physical storage media such as USB drives, external hard drives, or burnable Blu-rays and DVDs. While physical media cannot be easily shared like download links or YouTube clips, it provides a secure method for long-term storage of your videos.
Consider these options based on your preferences and requirements to address copyright flags or strikes on unlisted or private YouTube videos.