If your copyrighted content appears on YouTube without permission, you can submit a formal copyright removal request.
Before You Submit
Important Considerations
Copyright Exceptions
You should first determine whether the content may qualify under:
- Fair use
- Public domain
- Other legal copyright exceptions
False or invalid claims may be rejected.
Scheduled Removal Option
You may request removal after 7 days instead of immediately.
Benefits:
- Gives uploader time to remove content voluntarily
- Avoids immediate copyright strike if resolved
Prevent Future Copies
When submitting through YouTube Studio, you can request automatic blocking of future duplicate uploads.
Privacy Notice
YouTube may legally share your submitted information with the uploader.
Alternative:
- An attorney or authorized representative can file on your behalf
Who Can Submit
Eligible submitters:
- Copyright owners
- Authorized legal representatives
- Attorneys
Submission Methods
Option 1: YouTube Studio (Videos Only)
Steps:
- Sign in to YouTube Studio
- Select Content detection
- Click New removal request
Option 2: Email, Fax, or Mail (Videos + Non-Video Content)
Email:
co*******@*****be.com
Fax:
+1 650-872-8513
Mail:
Copyright Operations
YouTube (Google LLC)
901 Cherry Ave.
San Bruno, CA 94066
USA
Required Information
1. Contact Information
Include:
- Physical address
- Phone number
2. Description of Copyrighted Work
Clearly describe:
- Original content
- Representative list if multiple works are involved
3. Direct URLs to Infringing Content
Provide accurate links to:
- Videos
- Shorts
- Channel art
- Comments
- Posts
- Playlists
- Profile pictures
- Super Stickers
- Other content types
4. Legal Statements
Include both:
“I have a good faith belief that the use of the material in the manner complained of is not authorized by the copyright owner, its agent, or the law.”
“The information in this notification is accurate, and under penalty of perjury, I am the owner, or an agent authorized to act on behalf of the owner, of an exclusive right that is allegedly infringed.”
5. Signature
Must include:
- Full legal first and last name
- Physical or electronic signature
Note:
Company names alone are insufficient.
Consequences of False Claims
Submitting fraudulent claims may result in:
- Account termination
- Legal penalties
- Liability for damages
Advanced Copyright Tools
Large rights holders may qualify for:
- Content ID
- Expanded copyright management tools
To successfully remove unauthorized copyrighted content from YouTube:
You must:
- Confirm ownership
- Evaluate fair use
- Provide valid URLs
- Submit legal statements
- Sign properly
Using YouTube Studio is often the fastest option for video-related claims.
