How to Report Stolen or Fake Content on YouTube

If someone has uploaded your video without permission or is spreading fake content under your name, it’s time to take action. As a content creator, your videos are your intellectual property — and YouTube gives you the tools to report content, request takedowns, and protect your rights.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how to report content on YouTube, especially in cases of copyright violations or impersonation. Step by step, simple and clear.
Why Reporting Content on YouTube Matters
YouTube hosts more than 500 hours of content uploaded every minute (Statista, 2024). Unfortunately, this volume means that stolen content, fakes, or impersonation slip through the cracks. If your videos are being reuploaded without permission or your identity is being misused, reporting them is your right — and your responsibility.
You should report content on YouTube if:
- Someone re-uploads your original video without permission
- A video includes parts of your copyrighted content (music, visuals, voice)
- A channel pretends to be you or uses your name/logo
- False claims or misleading edits are being used to harm your reputation
How to Report Copyright Violations on YouTube (DMCA Takedown Request)
The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) gives you the right to request removal of any video that infringes on your original work.
Step-by-Step: Submit a YouTube Copyright Complaint
- Go to the YouTube Copyright Complaint Form
- Add the video you want to report to the list
Copy the link to the Youtube Video you want to report and add it to the list - you can report several videos at the same time. Also, provide a link to the original source of the content. After that, you can specify exactly what you want to report. You can report:- Full re-uploads of your video
- Reuse of a portion of your content (like a clip or music sample)
- Videos that use your footage, audio, or content without consent
- Copyright violating thumbnails
- Misleading descriptions
- Links to material that allegedly infringes copyright
- Enter your full contact details
- Enter a deadline for removing the infringing video
You can choose between:- Sending a 7 days deadline to the uploader of the video
- Requesting immediate removal
- Use phrases like:
- “This video was originally published on my channel and re-uploaded without permission.”
- (Optional) Prevent Reuploads
By checking an option, you can prevent copies of the video you reported from being uploaded to YouTube again.
- Submit Legal Statements
You must confirm:- You are the copyright owner or authorized to act on behalf of one
- You’re making the claim in good faith
- You understand that abuse of the process can have legal consequences
- Sign the Form & click submit
- Type your full name as your digital signature
- After clicking the "Submit" button you will get a confirmation email and Youtube will begin reviewing your claim. Typically it takes Youtube 1-7 business days to review your request
- Type your full name as your digital signature
What Happens After You Report Content on YouTube?
Once you submit your report, YouTube reviews it carefully. They may:
- Remove the video or channel
- Ask the uploader to remove the copyrighted material
- Apply a strike to the channel (3 strikes = permanent ban)
- Notify you via email once a decision is made
In some cases, the uploader may file a counter-notification, claiming they had the right to use your content. YouTube will inform you of this, and you may need to take legal steps.
Best Practices to Prevent Future Infringement
- Add Watermarks or Branding
Your logo or channel name in videos helps prove ownership.
- Register Your Copyright
In some countries, having registered copyright strengthens your legal rights.
- Use YouTube’s Content ID System
If you’re a larger creator or label, you can apply for access to Content ID to automatically detect reuploads.
- Stay Alert with Manual Searches
Regularly search YouTube for your name, video titles, or image stills to detect stolen content early.
Use the Tools YouTube Gives You
As a content creator, you have the right to protect your videos and your name. Whether you’re dealing with stolen uploads, copyright abuse, or fake profiles — YouTube has official forms and reporting systems in place.
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Need professional help taking down stolen content? Our team at Remove.tech supports creators with DMCA takedowns, brand protection, and more.