YouTube has recently updated its guidelines, requiring fan channels to disclose their true nature. The platform now mandates that fan accounts clearly indicate in their channel name or handle that they are not affiliated with the company or artist they focus on. These updated guidelines will be effective starting from August 21, 2023.
According to YouTube, channels posing as fan accounts and unlawfully re-uploading content from other channels will no longer be permitted. Furthermore, channels using identical names and avatars or banners to mimic existing channels, with minor alterations such as inserting spaces in the name or replacing letters with zeros, will also be prohibited.
In addition, users are not allowed to create channels using the name and image of another person and then comment on other channels as if they were that person. Similarly, channels claiming to be fan accounts in their channel description must now explicitly state this fact in their channel name or handle to comply with the updated guidelines.
In a blog post, YouTube explained that this update aims to provide genuine fan channels with clear guidelines on how to express their admiration for their favourite creators while also safeguarding original creators from impersonation and unauthorised use of their content. The company further emphasised that this policy update will prevent viewers from being misled by deceptive channels they interact with, while also protecting creators from having their name and likeness exploited for malicious purposes.
Previously, YouTube did not have a specific policy regarding fan accounts; it simply prohibited impersonation channels on the platform. However, with the new guidelines, fan accounts are now required to openly declare their status as fan accounts to avoid having their channels removed. YouTube’s updated policy emphasises that channels or content causing confusion about the source of advertised goods and services may face restrictions.