TikTok is one of the most popular social media apps in the world, and as such boasts content from an endless stream of creators – tapping into video trends and challenges to suit all users and markets.
Copyright becomes an issue when a TikTok creator’s content is replicated or passed off as another user’s own idea or video. As a user, when taking an idea or video trend from another user it is good practice to include a credit to the original creator. But that’s not the only thing you need to focus on and think about when creating content.
How Does Copyright Work on TikTok?
Copyright is a term taken from the legal industry that protects TikTok creators as well as music artists, editors, photographers, and other creatives.
When you create content on TikTok, it’s important that you consider copyright when using any pre-existing material – be it a song, audio clip, video, movie clip, image, or something else.
Most of the songs and sounds that are available on TikTok have been deemed as okay to use under copyright laws – however, that doesn’t stop creators from pushing the boundaries and trying to connect other songs and clips to their videos.
Here are some of the best ways to ensure that your content doesn’t infringe on copyright laws…
Only Use Sounds Offered on TikTok
When it comes to sounds and music in particular, the best way to ensure you do not breach copyright laws is to only use sounds that are offered in the TikTok library.
All of these sounds have been licensed by TikTok and can be used freely by creators.
Create Your Own Sounds and Visuals
Another way of protecting your content from being reported for copyright is to create completely unique and original content.
If you take a trend or idea from another user, you could add an extra layer of protection by crediting them. This isn’t just good for protecting yourself from copyright, it’s also good TikTok etiquette!
Has Someone Stolen Your Content?
If you fall foul of copyright on TikTok and find that another creator has taken your content or video and passed it off as their own, then it’s important to follow the right reporting channels.
A copyright violation is the unauthorised use of someone else’s original work. When this happens to you, you need to let TikTok know by reporting the profile of the user and clearly defining the issue.
Copyright remains something that TikTok is continuing to improve its response to. The best way to keep TikTok safe and enjoyable for all users is to credit creators when you fall back on their ideas and trends, only use original or pre-approved TikTok sounds and filters, and never pass someone else’s work off as your own.
