Instagram removed your post for copyright: what to do

What to do first

Don’t repost the removed content. Read the notice completely. It should say what was removed, who the claimant is, and what you can do next. Screenshot it, then ask yourself honestly: did I own it, license it or have permission to use it?

Step 1: Check whether the claim was right

Common triggers are music in a Reel, a clip from a film or sports event, a photo you didn’t take and screenshots of someone’s work. If the claim is accurate, the best move is usually to accept it and move on. If it’s mistaken, such as your own original work or something licensed to you, you can contest it.

Step 2: Appeal through the notice

Instagram’s help page says to follow the appeal instructions in the removal notice. Sometimes you’ll contact the rights owner directly and ask them to retract the claim, which is often the fastest route when it was a misunderstanding.

Step 3: File a counter-notification only if you’re sure

A DMCA counter-notification is a legal statement that the content was removed by mistake or misidentification. Instagram forwards it to the reporter. According to the help page, if the reporter doesn’t tell Instagram they’ve started a court action, the content may be restored within up to 14 business days. Don’t file one if you used material you didn’t have rights to.

Step 4: Know the repeat-infringer rule

Repeated copyright violations can lead to limits on posting and, eventually, disabling the account. Content restored through a valid counter-notification is not counted toward that. This is why you should take repeated claims seriously.

How to avoid claims in future

• Use original footage and audio wherever you can.
• For music, use the in-app library as intended, and remember that licensing differs by account type.
• Get written permission before reposting someone’s work, and credit them.
• Keep a folder with licences or receipts for stock footage and fonts.
• Keep clips of films, sport and TV off your account unless you hold the rights.

For brands, a short internal checklist before posting is cheaper than losing a campaign.

Who actually made the claim?

The notice names the person or company who reported the content. That matters. If it’s a record label, a photographer or a studio, the claim is likely automated and may be accurate. If it’s an individual, you may be able to resolve it directly with a polite message. Never contact them in a way that could look like harassment.

What not to do

• Don’t file a false counter-notification. It’s a legal statement.
• Don’t reupload under a new account or edit it just enough to dodge detection.
• Don’t assume “fair use” applies automatically. It is a legal defence, not a switch.
• Don’t use music not licensed for your account type. Business accounts often have a more limited music library than creator accounts.