YouTube has strict policies regarding copyright and community guidelines. Violating these policies can lead to strikes, demonetization, or even channel termination. In this guide, we will explain these policies in detail and provide you with ways to avoid violations.
1. Understanding YouTube’s Copyright Policy
What is Copyright?
Copyright protects original works such as music, videos, books, and art. If you use copyrighted content without permission, the owner has the right to claim or remove your content.
How to Avoid Copyright Strikes?
- Use Copyright-Free Content: Use content from platforms that provide royalty-free music, videos, and images.
- Get Permission: If you want to use copyrighted material, obtain permission from the owner.
- Use Fair Use (Limited Cases): Commentary, criticism, news reporting, and educational content might fall under fair use, but it’s risky.
What Happens If You Get a Copyright Strike?
- Your video may be removed.
- You may lose monetization.
- If you get 3 strikes, your channel can be terminated.
2. Community Guidelines: What You Must Follow
YouTube enforces strict community guidelines to maintain a safe and respectful environment. Here are the key rules:
Content You Should Avoid
- Hate Speech & Harassment: No content promoting hate against individuals or groups.
- Violence & Dangerous Acts: No content showing harmful or dangerous activities.
- Spam & Misleading Content: No fake giveaways, scams, or deceptive titles.
- Misinformation: No spreading false information about health, politics, or events.
- Nudity & Sexual Content: No explicit content.
How to Keep Your Content Safe?
- Follow YouTube’s Community Guidelines
- Avoid using misleading titles, tags, or thumbnails.
- Don’t engage in sub4sub or artificial engagement.
3. Monetization Policies & Google AdSense Compliance
To monetize your channel, you must comply with YouTube Partner Program (YPP) policies:
Basic Monetization Requirements
- 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past 12 months OR 10 million public Shorts views in 90 days.
- Follow YouTube’s Monetization Policies
- Ad-friendly content that aligns with Google AdSense Policies
Avoiding Demonetization
- Do not use excessive copyrighted content.
- Avoid reused or repetitive content.
- Follow YouTube’s advertiser-friendly guidelines.
4. Safe Practices & Tools to Use
- Check for Copyright Issues: Use YouTube’s Copyright Checker
- Monitor Community Guidelines Strikes: Visit your YouTube Studio Dashboard
- Use Royalty-Free Music & Videos: Platforms like Epidemic Sound
Conclusion
By following these guidelines, you can keep your YouTube channel safe from copyright strikes and policy violations. Always create original content, follow YouTube’s policies, and stay updated with the latest guidelines to ensure long-term success on the platform.
