TikTok uses an automated copyright detection system to scan uploaded content for copyrighted audio. If your song matches an existing track in TikTok’s music library or a third-party rights database, it could be muted, taken down, or result in a copyright claim. This can even happen even if you own the rights to your music or have permission to use it.

How to Prevent Your Songs from Being Flagged

1. Distribute Your Music Through an Official Partner

The best way to ensure your music is properly recognized on TikTok is to distribute it through a trusted digital distributor (like Syntax Creative). When your song is delivered officially, TikTok recognizes it as part of their licensed catalog, reducing the risk of detection issues.

2. Use the Official Audio in TikTok’s Library

If you’ve already distributed your track to TikTok’s music library, manually uploading the same song in a video can trigger detection issues. Instead, use the official sound from TikTok’s library to ensure proper attribution.

This, of course, is only an available option post-release. For any pre-release promotion, upload your video with the audio for the first video. For any following promotional videos, use the same audio that was already uploaded to TikTok.

3. Keep the Audio Usage Under 60 Seconds.

TikTok’s global music licensing agreements often place limits on how long a track can be used in videos. While specific restrictions may vary, keeping your audio usage under 60 seconds can help reduce the risk of removal. This is especially important if you’re manually adding your song to a video rather than using TikTok’s official music library. Sticking to shorter clips can increase your chances of staying within TikTok’s guidelines while still making an impact.

4. Ensure You Own 100% of the Rights

If your song contains samples, beats, or loops from another artist or an unlicensed source, TikTok may flag it. Even beats you purchased online may still have rights restrictions. To avoid this:

  • Use original compositions or properly licensed sounds.
  • Clear all samples and third-party content before uploading.

5. Turn off TikTok’s Video Sound Copyright Check in Your Settings

TikTok has a Video Sound Copyright Check feature that automatically scans your uploaded videos for potential copyright issues before posting. If you own the rights to your music and are experiencing unnecessary flags, you can try turning this setting off. This won’t bypass legitimate copyright claims, but it can help prevent false flags on music you legally own.

What to Do If Your Song Gets Flagged

If your song is mistakenly removed or muted:

  • Appeal the decision through TikTok’s in-app copyright dispute process.
  • Contact your distributor to confirm proper metadata delivery.
  • Check your publishing rights to ensure all necessary registrations are complete.

Avoiding detection on TikTok is all about being proactive. Distribute your music officially, ensure you have the proper rights, and use TikTok’s library whenever possible. Follow these steps to maximize your music’s reach while keeping your profile in the clear.