Fixing Vimeos’ automated copyright notices is problematic.
Vimeo is now regularly issuing music copyright notices to businesses hosting video on their site, even though Vimeo has received no complaints in respect to a video, and the music is properly licensed.
If not actioned within 48hrs, automated restrictions mean losing public access to your website videos, potentially harming SERP and trust in your business.
Why do you get claims for music copyright infractions on Vimeo?
1) Artists place music on a royalty free service, and then later on another service using content ID. They may even issue the music on Spotify. Often using alternate artist names or track titles.
These new issues of the music trigger the automated system due to their being claimed by a new platform or artist.
2) Third parties download music from sites, then claim that as their own.
3) Artists move from a straight royalty free model to a content ID system of licensing.
4) Vimeo gets it wrong, tagging a track as one thing when its another.
We recently had a case where a track from a royalty free music site was reissued by the artist on Spotify. This lead to notice’s from Vimeo on multiple videos. Despite no complaint being received, and the track being fully licensed.
How do I fix a Vimeo music copyright claim?
There are 3 ways to fix a music copyright notice on Vimeo.
1) Appeal the claim using the link provided on the notice. You will need to attach your licence for the music. A licence can usually be downloaded from your providers website alongside your music track. On Motion Array (for instance), you can go into your account and see your downloads, along side of these there is a button to download the licence.
2) Change the music on your video. This is a two edged sword , whilst it may fix the immediate problem, it may lead to another claim. This may not be easy if the video has other audio such as a narration.
3) Choose a different host for your corporate or business videos. There are other hosts than Vimeo who do not police third party material in this manner.
Vimeo’s automated music copyright system is turning Vimeo from the premier host for corporate videos, into one that is not fit for purpose.
Businesses will struggle to correct issues within 48hrs, especially if notice is received on the weekend, which appears to be Vimeo’s practice.
If the video producer is no longer available to help, the problem may be insurmountable.
Outside of the above, Vimeo’s actions lead to increased costs and risks for business using their platform.
From a producers perspective, how can we recommend a host if they interfere in the use of client videos?
To learn more about best practice in licensing, check this out!
