YouTube Copyright Strike Meaning

A YouTube copyright strike means your channel has violated YouTube’s copyright policy by using content you do not own or have permission to use.
Unlike a copyright claim, a strike is serious and directly impacts your channel’s standing.

How Copyright Strikes Work on YouTube

YouTube uses a three-strike policy:

• 1st strike

  • Warning is issued

  • Copyright School is required

  • Some features may be restricted

• 2nd strike

  • Additional restrictions

  • Higher risk to your channel

• 3rd strike

  • Channel is permanently terminated

  • All videos are removed

Strikes expire after 90 days if no further violations occur.

What Happens to Your Channel After a Strike?

After receiving a strike:

• The video is taken down

• Monetization on that video stops

• Live streaming may be disabled temporarily

• Channel trust score is reduced

Repeated strikes can lead to fast termination.

How to Remove a Copyright Strike

You can remove a strike by:

• Waiting 90 days without further violations

• Requesting a retraction from the copyright owner

• Submitting a counter-notification if you truly own the rights

False counter-notifications can result in legal trouble.

When Should You Counter a Strike?

Only counter if:

• You own the content

• You have written permission or a license

• Your use clearly qualifies as fair use

Never counter just to test your luck.

How to Avoid Copyright Strikes

• Use royalty-free or licensed music

• Avoid reuploading clips you do not own

• Add strong original commentary and transformation

• Credit alone does not give permission

“YouTube copyright strike” means a serious copyright violation that can put your channel at risk. While one strike is manageable, repeated strikes can permanently end your channel.

Understanding copyright rules is essential for protecting your content and long-term growth.

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