Twitch implements changes to help streamers with DMCA crackdown

Olivia Richman Published 19/03/2021

Issues with DMCA copyright strikes have continued to plague Twitch streamers in 2021, and it appears that Twitch is finally doing something to help.

While most streamers have understood that playing popular music during a stream will lead to a copyright strike, the DMCA issue has still been difficult for most content creators. Many streamers have had their accounts permanently banned over the music used in old VODs from years ago, causing other streamers to scramble and delete old clips and videos. For some, this has meant the loss of incalcuable amounts of original content.

Twitch acknowledged the issue late last year, but it seemed like nothing was being done about it. The streaming platform is now implementing some tools that will address the ongoing problems with DMCA strikes. Streamers will now be able to track DMCA notice on their dashboard, delete VODs in batches up to 20 at a time, and even delete all of their VODs with a single click.

These changes will ensure that streamers are informed about the DMCA issues immediately and given the chance to properly address it before getting a suspension.

Twitch is rolling out new tools for managing DMCAs:
• Receive and track DMCA notices on your Dashboard
• Delete/unpublish VODs in batches of up to 20 at a time, or all at once with a single click pic.twitter.com/FvytWn2VB6
— Lowco (@Lowco2525) March 17, 2021

Twitch makes VOD changes to help with DMCA problems

In addition to these changes, Twitch is now allowing streamers to unpublish VODs directly within the Video Producer. That means they no longer have to download the videos first. The VODs that streamers must address will be made clearer as well, so that content creators are aware of the specific videos need their attention.

Even though this will hopefully keep streamers from getting suspended without warning, it doesn’t address streamers’ continued frustrations with Twitch’s limited music options due to DMCA guidelines. Many streamers are upset that they can’t play certain songs on stream. Others are scared of live streaming outside of their home in case a song is suddenly played in public and then gets them in trouble on Twitch.

While DMCA continues to be a source of frustration for streamers on Twitch, these latest changes will hopefully allow streamers to better protect themselves from DMCA strikes instead of getting suspended before they can even comprehend what’s going on with their account.

Olivia Richman

About Olivia Richman

Olivia has worked in media ever since graduating from college, with her coverage ranging from traditional newspaper reporting to digital coverage of all things gaming, online betting, and nerd culture. She has traveled around the world pursuing that coverage, from the far coasts of the United States to the busy downtown core of Tokyo, Japan. Olivia’s favorite games include Overwatch and Super Smash Smash Bros, and she has been published at Esports Illustrated, Inven Global, EsportsInsider, Upcomer, and elsewhere.

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