YouTube to Pay Fees for Some Video Makers to Fight Takedowns

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Since its inception, YouTube has been embroiled in long and bitter battles over copyright infringement. And over the years, the video site has increased its policing of pirated material. But too often, the company says, the demands of copyright holders to take down videos go too far. Now, YouTube is taking the unusual step of financially supporting YouTube creators so they can fight back.

YouTube said that it would pick up the legal costs of a handful of video creators that the company thinks are the targets of unfair takedown demands. It said the creators it chose legally use third-party content under “fair use” provisions carved out for commentary, criticism, news and parody. An example of fair use is a segment by the TV host Stephen Colbert that rebroadcasts cable news clips for the comedian to react to. YouTube is starting small, initially supporting four video creators, but it said it may expand its program. The company said it wanted to protect free speech and educate users on fair use. But its announcement is also is aimed at strengthening loyalty with video creators. YouTube faces new competition from Facebook, Twitter and traditional media companies that are trying to get consumers to upload more content onto their platforms.


YouTube to Pay Fees for Some Video Makers to Fight Takedowns Google Announces Program to Defend YouTube Users From Fair Use Takedowns (Public Knowledge)