Twitch once again gets a new batch of DMCA takedown notices, and as always Twitch puts the burden on creators.
We've previously covered how the live-streaming platform introduced new tools that make it easier to issue DMCA notices. Hence, it's not exactly surprising to hear that Twitch just got a whole batch of DMCA takedown notifications. In an email to Twitch users late last week, the platform reminded users of their responsibilities as streamers. “While the vast majority of you don’t include unauthorized background music in your livestreams,” the email reads. “this recent batch suggests that some of you still do. The only way to protect yourself from DMCA notifications is to not stream music – or other copyrighted material – you do not have rights to.”
“All of the claims are for VODs,” writes Twitch, “and the vast majority target streamers listening to background music while playing video games or IRL streaming.” Hence, it seems that live videos don't get taken down immediately, but VODs appear to be more vulnerable to these notices.
The solution? Twitch says they will talk to music labels, the first time they will be doing so ever. “We are actively speaking with music labels about solutions that could work for creators as well as rights holders.”
However, Twitch also asks creators to “unpublish all” of their VODs if they suspect they've committed copyright violations. “For your remaining VODs, we recommend you use the “unpublish all” feature and review any content for unauthorized music or other copyrighted material.” Twitch says they will also continue educating streamers on what kind of content they are allowed to use on their content.
As many streamers have already pointed out in the past, DMCA takedown notices can be abused, and many believe that Twitch doesn't do enough to address this.
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