Warning: Facebook Creators Face Monetization Loss for Stealing and Reposting Videos

Facebook Takes Strong Action Against Content Theft

In a bid to combat spam and ensure a better user experience, Facebook is cracking down on accounts that steal and repost content from other users. Meta, Facebook’s parent company, announced that creators found repeatedly reusing someone else’s videos, photos, or text posts will face consequences such as losing access to monetization programs and reduced post distribution.

The company explained that the proliferation of the same memes or videos, often from accounts posing as the original creators, diminishes the platform’s overall experience and hampers the discovery of fresh content. To address this issue, Facebook will reduce the distribution of duplicate videos to prevent them from overshadowing the original creators.

Furthermore, Meta is exploring ways to give proper credit to creators by testing features that direct viewers to the original content. These changes will be implemented gradually over the next few months, with a focus on promoting original content and reducing spam.

While Facebook is taking a stand against unoriginal content, creators who add their unique perspective or commentary when resharing content will not be penalized. The platform encourages creators to make meaningful edits, voiceovers, or commentary to reused content to avoid being flagged as spammy. Additionally, creators are advised to steer clear of visible third-party watermarks and content recycled from other sources.

The move by Facebook is part of a broader effort to combat spam and elevate original content in users’ feeds. Meta has already taken action against half a million accounts for engaging in spammy behavior. YouTube is also making efforts to address spammy and repetitive content, updating its policies to combat mass-produced videos facilitated by generative AI tools.