Appealing Rejected Content ID Disputes
If a video has been misidentified by the Content ID system or improperly claimed, uploaders can dispute the identification. This involves filling out a short form listing the reason for the dispute. The claimant is then notified to review the video as well as the reference material that was matched. If the claimant disagrees with the dispute and reinstates their claim on the video, eligible uploaders may be able to appeal this decision.
Who is eligible to appeal rejected disputes?
Uploaders in good copyright standing may be able to appeal up to three disputed Content ID matches that were reviewed and rejected at a time.
Additional eligibility restrictions may apply, including the date of dispute and other factors. Uploaders will also be asked to verify their account if they have not already done so. The eligibility for the appeals process may change over time.
What happens when a rejected dispute is appealed?
If an uploader appeals a rejected dispute, the claimant will be required to either:
- release the claim on the video
- OR send a legal copyright notification. In this event, the video will be taken down and the uploader will receive a copyright strike. If they receive additional copyright strikes, this may suspend their YouTube account. You can learn more on our page about copyright strikes.
Because an appeal may initiate the legal notification and counter-notification process, the contact information provided in the appeal form will be shared with the claimant, who may eventually choose to take legal action.
Once the appeal has been submitted, the claimant will review the appeal. They will have the option to submit a DMCA takedown or release their claim on the video. To avoid penalization, users should only submit legitimate disputes and appeals.
