Creating videos for YouTube and Instagram has become a great way to earn money these days. However, many new creators make a major mistake: using popular songs, music, or video clips from others without permission. The result? They suddenly receive a copyright strike, and sometimes their entire channel gets banned.
The easiest and most legal way to avoid this problem is by correctly using Creative Commons.

Why do copyright strikes occur?
When you include someone else's music, song, or video clip in your video, the original owner can report it to YouTube. YouTube’s systems also detect this automatically. Accumulating three strikes can lead to your channel being permanently shut down. Using Bollywood or Hollywood songs or viral video clips is particularly risky.

What is Creative Commons?
Creative Commons is a licensing system where creators make their work available for others to use—either for free or with certain conditions. There are six types of licenses, but the most useful ones for YouTube creators are:

CC0 (Public Domain) – Completely free; no need to give credit.
CC BY – You can use it, but you must give credit.
CC BY-NC – For non-commercial use (no monetization).

Where can you find Creative Commons music and clips?
YouTube Audio Library – The safest and easiest option. Go to YouTube Studio and select music from the Audio Library.
Free Music Archive
Bensound
Pixabay Music
Pexels and Pixabay – For free video clips.

How do you use them correctly?
Always read the license to check if monetization is permitted.
Make sure to give credit in the video description (e.g., "Music by XYZ licensed under CC BY").
If the license says "Non-Commercial," do not monetize videos using that music. Prioritize using your own original music, voiceovers, or royalty-free music. Extra Tips
Review your older videos and replace any music that might be problematic.
You can also use paid platforms like Epidemic Sound or Artlist (free trials are available).

Use Meta's Music Library for Instagram Reels as well.
Hard work and originality are essential for success on YouTube and Instagram. Do not try to take shortcuts by stealing music or videos from others.

By making proper use of resources like Creative Commons and the YouTube Audio Library, you can keep your channel safe and generate revenue in the long run.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from News18 Hindi. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.