🎵 Content ID on YouTube and SoundCloud: What is it and how does it work?

Content ID is an automated tool used by platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud to identify, protect and manage copyright on musical content. Here's an overview of how it works and the steps to use it with Wiseband.

📢 What is Content ID?

Content ID is a system that analyzes videos or audio tracks uploaded to platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud to detect the use of copyrighted content.

On YouTube, Content ID compares video files to tracks recorded in a database. If a match is found, automatic actions can be triggered (monetization, blocking, or tracking).

On SoundCloud, the system also detects tracks that match protected music. This allows artists or rights holders to make decisions about this content.

🚀 How Does Content ID Work with Wiseband?

Wiseband allows you to register your music in the Content ID system to protect your rights. Here's how it works:

1️⃣ Registration of Your Music

When you distribute your tracks with Wiseband, you can choose to activate Content ID on YouTube, SoundCloud, or both platforms.

2️⃣ Automatic Analysis

Once your music is registered, it's added to the Content ID systems database.

Platforms permanently scan their content to detect matches with your tracks.

3️⃣ Detection and Action

If your music is used by a third party without authorization, Content ID can:

• Monetize the video/audio for your account.
• Track performance (statistics and visibility).
• Block content according to your choices.

✅ Why Use Content ID with Wiseband?

Here are the main advantages of using Content ID with Wiseband:

🔴 What You Need to Know Before Activating Content ID

1️⃣ Exclusive Ownership: You must be the sole rights holder of the music you register. If your track contains samples, covers, or other protected elements, it could be rejected by Content ID.

2️⃣ Processing Time: Once your music is submitted, registration in YouTube and SoundCloud systems can take a few days.

3️⃣ Claiming by Wiseband: With Content ID activated, your content will be automatically claimed by Wiseband to be protected and monetized. This means you won't be able to monetize your content directly yourself, but you'll receive your revenue in your royalties via Wiseband.

4️⃣ Whitelisting Option: If you want to monetize your content yourself while benefiting from Content ID protection, you can request to whitelist your YouTube or SoundCloud channel. This allows excluding your channel from claims while maintaining copyright protection on other videos or tracks.

💡 How to Activate Content ID via Wiseband?

1️⃣ Log into your Wiseband account.

2️⃣ When distributing your music, select the Content ID YouTube and SoundCloud option.

3️⃣ Follow the steps to finalize the distribution.

4️⃣ Once activated, you'll be notified of detections made by Content ID and can track generated revenue directly from your Wiseband account.

📩 Need Help with This Process?

If you have questions or specific needs (like whitelisting your channel), don't hesitate to contact our team via Wiseband support.

Updated on: 09/09/2025