YouTube

Intellectual Property Policy

Last updated: 2025-08-23

As creators and users of YouTube, you share in our mission to make content accessible worldwide. We protect intellectual property rights while fostering innovation and creative expression.

1. OVERVIEW

Our intellectual property policies govern how content is shared, protected, and used across the platform. This document outlines rights and responsibilities for users, creators, and partners.

We use automated systems and human review to detect and address unauthorized content. Users can file DMCA takedown requests through our official abuse reporting system.

2. CONTENT OWNERSHIP

User Content

By uploading content, you grant YouTube a worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, distribute, and display your content across platforms and devices.

Platform Content

All YouTube logos, trademarks, and proprietary materials are protected by international intellectual property laws and may not be used without proper authorization.

3. RIGHTS AND PROTECTION

Copyright Claims

Content owners can register works with our copyright system to claim content or request removal.

Learn more about copyright claims →

Trademarks

Trademark holders may request removal of infringing content through our trademark reporting form.

Submit a trademark concern →

Patent Protection

We actively protect our patented technologies and may pursue legal action against infringers.

View patent portfolio →

4. REPORTING VIOLATIONS

For Content Owners

For General Users