Downloading a video takes seconds. Knowing what you are allowed to do with it afterwards is the harder part. This guide explains the rules that apply in most countries in plain English. It is general information, not legal advice; if you plan to use someone else’s video commercially, talk to a lawyer or get written permission.
Videos are owned by their creators
As soon as someone records and posts a video, they usually own the copyright to it. Copyright covers the right to copy, edit, publish and earn money from a work. Being able to watch a video for free does not mean you are free to copy it, re-upload it or use it in your own content. For a global overview of how copyright works, see the World Intellectual Property Organization.
Usually fine
- Downloading your own videos as a backup.
- Saving videos the creator has given you permission to use, ideally in writing.
- Content released under a licence that allows copying, such as some Creative Commons licences, as long as you follow its terms, which usually include crediting the author.
- Works in the public domain, for example very old footage whose copyright has expired.
Usually not fine
- Re-uploading someone else’s video to your own account, even with credit, without permission.
- Using a downloaded video in ads, products or anything you earn money from.
- Removing a watermark, username or credit to hide where a video came from.
- Compiling other people’s clips into “best of” videos and monetising them.
What about fair use?
Some countries allow limited use of copyrighted material without permission, for example for commentary, criticism, news reporting or teaching. In the United States this is called fair use, and the U.S. Copyright Office Fair Use Index collects real court decisions. Courts look at four factors:
- The purpose of your use, and whether it transforms the original, for example by adding commentary.
- The nature of the original work.
- How much of it you use.
- The effect on the market for the original.
Fair use is decided case by case, so it is not a blanket permission. Other countries have narrower rules, often called fair dealing, with specific allowed purposes.
Platform rules matter too
Each platform has its own terms of service, and some do not allow downloading content outside their own apps or features. Breaking those terms can get your account restricted even when no copyright law is broken. For example, read the TikTok Terms of Service before reusing anything from TikTok.
A simple checklist before you reuse a video
| Question | If the answer is no… |
|---|---|
| Is it my own video? | Go to the next question. |
| Do I have the creator’s permission? | Ask first, and keep the reply. |
| Is it under a licence that allows my use? | Do not reuse it. |
| Am I crediting the creator clearly? | Add a visible credit and link. |
When in doubt, ask
A short message to the creator asking for permission solves most problems, and most creators appreciate being asked and credited. If someone reposts your video without permission, every major platform has a reporting form for copyright owners.
Our own rules are in the Terms of Use, and copyright owners can reach us through the Copyright and DMCA page. If you are a creator, our backup guide shows how to keep your own work safe.
