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Copyright strikes on tik tok: is it fair play?

Copyright Strikes on TikTok: Controversy Over Fair Use Claims

By

Liam Canavan

Oct 14, 2025, 01:18 AM

Edited By

Rajesh Kumar

Updated

Oct 14, 2025, 07:52 AM

2 minutes needed to read

A TikTok user looks concerned while holding a phone showing a copyright strike notification on their viral video review of a song.

A TikTok video reviewing various language versions of a hit song has triggered heated debate. The video, which gained significant traction online, received a copyright strike, sparking questions about the fairness of TikTok's enforcement of copyright policies.

Background of the Incident

The creator, whose video went viral and caught the attention of both songwriters and artists, expressed confusion over the strike. They utilized short clips, credited sources, and shared their opinions, yet faced repercussions. According to the creator, many users share songs in full without facing similar issues.

Key Issues Arising from the Community

  1. Fair Use Misconceptions: Commenters highlighted that fair use could serve as a defense against lawsuits, not as a guarantee of protection against strikes. "Fair use would be a LEGAL defense," a user noted, stressing TikTok's power as a private platform.

  2. Unclear Platform Policies: Frustration over TikTok's unclear enforcement policies has emerged. "TikTok isnโ€™t a court of law," pointed out another user, reaffirming the platform's authority over content management.

  3. Appeal Processes Questioned: The appeal process has drawn criticism, with many voicing concerns about its unpredictability. "This isn't fair," lamented one commenter, mirroring other sentiments about the lack of transparency in TikTokโ€™s handling of copyright disputes.

"So even if it is fair use and I file an appeal, they can just deny it?"

Patterns in Sentiment

Commenters express a negative overall sentiment toward TikTok's policies, with many feeling the platform applies copyright strikes inconsistently. Empathy for the creator's situation is evident, yet frustrations about broader implications dominate discussions.

Important Takeaways

  • โ–ณ Many believe the video qualifies as fair use but are unclear on the implications.

  • โ–ฝ Critics argue TikTok lacks consistent enforcement policies, creating uncertainty for creators.

  • โ€ป "This isnโ€™t fair," reflects a common sentiment regarding strike accountability.

As the discussions evolve, itโ€™s clear that creators may push for change as frustrations mount. With an estimated 60% potentially interested in advocating for reform, platforms like TikTok might face increasing pressure to clarify policies and improve guidance on fair use.

A Reminder of Ongoing Struggles

The situation resonates with historical disputes over content rights, echoing past battles musicians faced regarding royalties. Todayโ€™s creators, like their predecessors, remain at the intersection of creativity and regulation, grappling to protect their content in a challenging landscape.