How to Remove a Copyright Strike on Instagram | Guide 2025

Received a copyright strike on Instagram in India? Learn how to remove a Copyright Strike on Instagram, file counter-notices, avoid future violations, and protect your content.

In India’s growing digital ecosystem, Instagram has become a key platform for creators, influencers, and businesses. But along with visibility comes the risk of copyright issues. If you’ve received a copyright strike on Instagram, don’t panic. Understanding your rights and taking timely action can help you get the content reinstated—or at least avoid further damage.

This legal guide explains everything Indian users need to know about removing Instagram copyright strikes, backed by both Instagram’s global policies and Indian copyright laws.

What is a Copyright Strike on Instagram?

A copyright strike happens when someone reports your Instagram content for using their original work—like music, video, images, or written content—without permission. If Instagram believes the claim is valid under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), they may:

• Remove the content

• Issue a warning

• Temporarily limit features

• Suspend or delete your account for repeat offenses

Even though Instagram follows U.S. laws like the DMCA, Indian Copyright Law (Copyright Act, 1957) offers certain protections and remedies to content creators in India.

Common Reasons for Copyright Strikes on Instagram

You may get a strike for:

• Using commercial music in your reels or stories without a license

• Reposting content without proper authorization

• Sharing film clips or TV footage

• Uploading someone else’s image or video without consent

What Happens When You Receive a Copyright Strike?

Instagram notifies you through email and your Support Inbox. The message typically includes:

• The type of content removed

• The person or entity who reported it

• The reason for the takedown

Multiple violations can lead to stricter actions, including permanent account deletion.

How to Fix Instagram Copyright Issue?

To fix Instagram copyright issues, start by identifying the content that triggered the violation—typically music, images, or videos owned by others. If you have the rights or permission to use the content, you can file an appeal through Instagram’s in-app support. Alternatively, replace or remove the copyrighted material to comply with Instagram’s policies.

Always ensure future posts use original content or properly licensed material to avoid repeat violations, which can lead to account restrictions or suspension. Using royalty-free resources or giving proper attribution where required can also help stay within copyright guidelines

How to Remove a Copyright Strike on Instagram in India: Step-by-Step

1. Carefully Review the Notification

Understand what needs to be removed and why. Identify:

• Which post or story was affected

• Who submitted the report

• The alleged infringement details

2. Evaluate the Legitimacy of the Claim

Ask yourself:

• Is this content mine or created by someone else?

• Do I have a license or written permission to use it?

• Could this fall under fair use, such as commentary, parody, news reporting, or educational purposes?

Note: Simply crediting the creator is not the same as having permission.

3. Remove Similar Infringing Content

If the claim is valid, clean up your profile. Remove or replace similar content to avoid future strikes. Replace it with:

• Royalty-free music (e.g., YouTube Audio Library, Artlist, Epidemic Sound)

• Free stock images and videos (e.g., Unsplash, Pexels, Pixabay)

4. File a Counter-Notification (If You Believe the Strike Is Wrong)

If you think the takedown was incorrect or your usage falls under “fair dealing” as per Indian law or “fair use” under DMCA, you can file a counter-notice.

Steps to File a Counter-Notice on Instagram:

• Visit the Support Inbox or email from Instagram

• Click on the notice

• Choose “Submit a Counter-Notification”

• Provide:

  • Your full legal name and contact info

  • A statement that the content was removed in error

  • Consent to U.S. legal jurisdiction (standard as Instagram is a U.S.-based company)

Instagram will forward your counter-notice to the original complainant. If they don’t take legal action within 10–15 business days, Instagram may restore your content.

5. Optionally Request a Retraction from the Claimant

If you know the individual or company who filed the strike, request a written retraction.

They can email Instagram at ip@instagram.com with:

• Your username

• A link to the affected content

• A statement clearly retracting the complaint

6. Consult a Legal Expert (Recommended)

For repeated or complex cases, speak with an Indian copyright lawyer who can:

• Draft legally sound counter-notices

• Send legal notices under the Indian Copyright Act

• Help protect your brand and digital IP

Preventing Future Copyright Strikes on Instagram

Stay compliant by following these best practices:

✅ Create 100% original content
✅ Use licensed or royalty-free music/images only
✅ Get written permissions or licenses
✅ Keep documentation for all your media rights
✅ Credit original creators where possible
✅ Use content under Creative Commons licenses
✅ Avoid remixing copyrighted music or videos and using clips from movies, shows, or commercial music without permission

Legal Remedies Under Indian Law

Under the Copyright Act, 1957, Indian users can:

• File a civil suit for wrongful claims or loss of income due to takedowns

• Send legal notices for takedown misuse or harassment

• Report digitally abusive strikes under the Information Technology Act, 2000

FAQs: Instagram Copyright Strike in India

Q1. Can my account be banned permanently for copyright strikes?
Yes. Repeated violations may lead to permanent suspension.

Q2. How long does it take for a counter-notification to be processed?
Typically 10–15 business days after it’s forwarded to the claimant.

Q3. Is it legal to re-upload modified content?
No. Even modified versions can violate copyright unless significantly transformed and non-infringing.

Q4. Can Indian copyright law protect me if I’m wrongly accused?
Yes. Indian law allows for remedies in cases of false or malicious copyright complaints.

Q5. Can I sue someone for filing a false copyright claim on Instagram?
Yes, under Indian law, you may take civil action for wrongful claims or digital harassment.

Q6. Will my account get deleted after a copyright strike?
One strike won’t delete your account, but repeated violations can lead to permanent suspension.

Q7. Does Instagram notify the person who reported the violation about the outcome?
Instagram may inform them if their report led to content removal, but not necessarily the appeal outcome.

Q8. Can I reupload the content after modifying it slightly?
No. Slight modifications don’t avoid copyright infringement. You need permission or a proper license.

Concluding

Receiving a copyright strike on Instagram is serious, but not irreversible. With the right strategy—understanding the legal context, responding properly, and staying proactive—you can remove wrongful strikes, protect your content, and ensure long-term digital safety.

Whether you’re a content creator, business owner, or social media manager in India, always prioritize originality and stay informed about your rights under Indian and international copyright laws.

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