What are the risks of copyright strikes and claims for a small YouTuber?

If you produce content that others want to use, you should monitor your videos in YouTube Studio. This will help you see if your content is being used elsewhere, which can provide insights into how your work is being shared and whether you need to take action to protect it.

I’ve had my fair share of copyright claims, especially when using snippets from movies and anime in my reviews. While I've managed to stay monetized without any strikes, claims can still hinder your ability to qualify for monetization in the future. It's crucial to create original content or ensure that you have permission for everything you use.

It's vital to remain proactive about copyright issues. If you receive a strike, take corrective actions immediately, such as removing the disputed content. YouTube provides resources on how to handle copyright strikes, so make sure to familiarize yourself with those guidelines.

If music is a significant issue for you, consider exploring independent artists who allow you to use their work for a small fee through platforms like Patreon. This way, you can enhance your videos without the fear of copyright issues, and it also supports creators.

Unfortunately, if you keep receiving strikes, it can lead to demonetization, and there's a real risk of losing your channel. YouTube expects creators to respect intellectual property rights. If you're continuously using someone else's content, it indicates that you're not learning from your mistakes, which could result in more severe penalties.