How to Remove a Harmful YouTube Video

Published October 30, 20263 min readBy the NegativeReviewsRemove team

A harmful video can be searched, shared and recommended long after it is posted. If one is aimed at you or your business, you need a plan. This guide explains how to remove a harmful YouTube video, which routes exist and what to do if the video stays.

What YouTube removes

YouTube enforces published community guidelines. The categories most relevant here are:

• Harassment and cyberbullying.
• Privacy violations, such as personal details or identifiable footage without consent.
• Impersonation of a person or channel.
• Scams, spam and deceptive practices.
• Hate speech, threats and graphic content.
• Copyright infringement.

What usually stays

Videos that review you honestly, criticize your business or share opinions within the rules. YouTube does not generally remove a video because it harms a reputation.

Step 1: save evidence

Record the video link, title, channel, upload date and timestamps for the problem sections. Screenshot the video, description and comments. If the video is edited later, you will have a record.

Step 2: report the video

Use the three-dot menu under the video and choose Report. Select the reason, then add timestamps and a short explanation. For example: "At 2:14 the video shows my home address, which I have not made public."

Step 3: use the privacy complaint process

If the video shows your personal information or identifiable footage, YouTube's privacy complaint process may fit. It involves a form, and the uploader may be given a short period to remove or edit the video. Be accurate and specific.

Step 4: use the copyright process

If the video copies your work, file a copyright request through YouTube's tools. Only do this if you are the rights holder, and understand that false statements can lead to legal consequences.

Step 5: consider legal advice

For false statements that cause serious harm, a qualified attorney can explain whether a claim exists and whether a court order is possible.

If the video stays up

• Reply calmly in the comments with facts, or publish a clear response on your site.
• Create accurate content of your own so viewers can compare.
• Monitor the video and its comments.
• Keep records in case the situation changes.

What not to do

• Do not organize mass reporting.
• Do not harass the uploader.
• Do not post fake counter-videos or accounts.
• Do not pay anyone who promises guaranteed removal.

Getting help

Our YouTube video removal service reviews the video, maps it to policy, prepares the report and follows up. We cannot guarantee that YouTube will act. See also How to report a harmful video on social media.

Frequently asked questions