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How to Resolve Copyright Issues on Social Media Content

A step-by-step guide to resolving copyright claims on Instagram and YouTube

Updated over 5 months ago

If you encounter copyright claims on the content we share for you on Instagram or YouTube, follow the steps below to resolve them quickly.

Resolving Copyright Claims on Instagram

When Instagram blocks your video due to a copyright issue, you can appeal the claim to have the content restored. Follow these steps:

  1. Check Notifications: Open your Instagram app and navigate to your notifications.

  2. Find the Blocked Video Notification: Look for the notification indicating that your video has been blocked.

  3. Click on Appeal: Scroll down within the notification and tap the "Appeal" option.

  4. Agree to Terms: Check the box labeled "I Agree."

  5. Enter Your Name: Input your name as your signature to confirm the appeal.

  6. Submit Appeal: Tap the "Appeal" button.

Your video will typically be restored within a few hours.



Resolving Copyright Claims on YouTube

If you receive a copyright claim on YouTube, here’s how you can dispute it:

  1. Visit YouTube Studio: Go to YouTube Studio and access the Content tab.

  2. Find the Affected Video: Use the "Copyright Claims" filter to locate the video.

  3. See the Claim Details: Hover over the claimed video and click on "See Details."

  4. Dispute the Claim: Click on "Actions" and select "Dispute."

  5. Select the Reason for Dispute:

    • Check the box labeled "My dispute isn’t based on any of the reasons above. I would still like to dispute this Content ID claim."

    • Click "Continue" and select "License" as the reason.

  6. Provide the License: In the Review Requirements section:

    • Copy and paste the details from your license certificate.

    • Check all the required boxes and submit.

The claim should be resolved shortly after submission.

Resolving Copyright Claims on Facebook

Steps to Dispute a Facebook Copyright Claim:

  1. Visit Your Facebook Profile

    • Open Facebook on your phone and tap your profile photo.

  1. Find the Support Inbox

    • Scroll down on your profile to find Help & Support at the bottom.

    • Tap Support Inbox to open it.

  1. Locate the Video in Question

    • In your Support Inbox messages, find the copyright claim notification.

    • Tap Continue at the bottom to proceed.

  1. Submit Dispute

    • You will see a list of options for how to handle the claim.

    • Select Submit Dispute and then tap Continue.

  1. Select the Reason

    • If you have explicit permission or a license, choose Licensed Content.

    • Otherwise, choose Other if you believe you’re allowed to use the content under fair use or a similar reason.

    • Tap Submit to confirm.

  1. Add Additional Details

    • Provide a clear explanation (20+ characters) about why you’re disputing.

    • For example, state that the platform you sourced the content from (e.g., Pixabay) permits its use under their licensing terms.

    • Tap Submit once you’ve added your details.


By following these steps, you can effectively address copyright issues and ensure your content remains visible on social media platforms. For further assistance, feel free to reach out to our support team.

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