HOW TO PROTECT YOUR YOUTUBE VIDEOS

Videos uploaded to YouTube are analyzed and matched against a database of files sent to us by content owners.

Copyright owners decide what happens when the content of a YouTube video matches a work they own. When this situation occurs, the video receives a claim.

What options do copyright owners have?
Copyright owners can take several actions on matching material:

Mute the audio that matches their music.

Block an entire video from being viewed.

Monetize the video through advertisements and, in some cases, share revenue with the person uploading the video.

Track video playback statistics.

Who can use Content ID?
YouTube only grants access to Content ID to copyright owners who meet specific criteria. To be approved, they must own exclusive rights to a substantial amount of original material that is frequently uploaded by the YouTube user community. YouTube also sets explicit guidelines on the use of Content ID. We monitor Content ID usage and challenges on a regular basis to ensure that guidelines are followed.
Content owners who repeatedly make erroneous claims may have their access to Content ID disabled, and their association with YouTube may be terminated.

If you are a content owner and believe your content meets the criteria, you can submit a request for Content ID.

Source: YouTube