Copyright on social media: what to check before publishing
Check the license, relevant rights and permission required to reuse someone else’s video.
A publicly accessible video can still be protected by copyright. Before copying or editing it, check who can authorize your use and on what terms.
What to check
- Whether you hold the rights or have permission for your intended use.
- Whether the license allows editing, commercial use and your publishing channels.
- Whether music, images or other participants require additional permissions.
- How to give credit and keep evidence of the license.
License conditions matter
A free license may require attribution or restrict changes or commercial use. CC BY 4.0, for example, requires appropriate credit, a license reference and an indication of changes. It does not automatically clear all privacy or image rights.
Check the relevant law
Copyright exceptions depend on the relevant country. Consult WIPO’s overview and the rules governing the use you plan. U.S. fair use is one national doctrine, rather than a worldwide permission.
If the permission is unclear
Get documented authorization or choose material with clear terms. Credits and no-infringement notices do not replace required permission. Seek legal advice before relying on an exception essential to the project.