COPYRIGHT 101

🛡️ COPYRIGHT 101: What Every EC Creator Needs to Know

Think copyright doesn’t apply to TikTok Shop creators? Think again. Whether you're filming UGC or going viral with a live demo, your content is protected — and copying someone else’s can get you banned.

Here’s what you need to know 👇

🚨 Copyright Does Apply to EC Creators

Just like big brands, creators own the rights to their original content. If someone steals your video, repurposes it without permission, or mimics your work frame-by-frame — that’s copyright infringement.

📌 Yes, even on TikTok Shop.

✅ When to Report Content Theft

You can report another creator if:

  • They reposted your content without changes or credit

  • You can prove your video was posted first

  • The copycat account has multiple stolen videos

⚠️ Only you as the rights owner can submit the report — unless your agent has a Letter of Authorization.

📝 How to Report Stolen Content

Here’s what to do:

  1. Go to TikTok’s Copyright Infringement Webform

  2. Provide links to:

    • Your original video

    • The stolen/copied version

  3. Clearly explain how the content was copied

You can report:

  • A single video

  • Multiple examples across different accounts

  • Accounts that regularly steal content

📩 What Happens After You Report

  • You’ll get an email confirmation

  • If verified, TikTok Trust & Safety (TnS) will remove the stolen video

  • The offender will get penalties — up to and including a permanent TikTok ban

💡 If the content was stolen during a livestream, the creator may be banned from going live for several days.

🔁 Repeat Offenders? TikTok Doesn't Play.

Creators who repeatedly infringe copyright can:

  • Receive multiple TnS strikes

  • Lose access to Shop features or lives

  • Get their account permanently removed

📣 Protect Your Work

Your videos are your brand. Don’t let copycats take credit or commissions. Know your rights — and use the tools TikTok gives you.