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How to File a DMCA Takedown on SoundCloud

Musicians on SoundCloud deal with a steady drip of theft: full tracks re-uploaded to strangers' profiles, unreleased leaks, and "free download" copies that siphon plays away from the original. SoundCloud handles this through a copyright report form that's linked from every track page, backed by a standard DMCA process. This guide shows you how to file a takedown that sticks.

Before you start

  • Proof of ownership, a link to your original release (your SoundCloud profile, distributor page, Bandcamp, or store listing) and, ideally, your master file.
  • The URL of every infringing track. Click Share on the track and copy the link; if one profile re-uploaded your whole catalog, still list each track individually.
  • Your contact details, full name and a monitored email address.
  • A rights check, only report works you own or are authorized to represent; SoundCloud warns that false reports can get your own account suspended or terminated.

Step 1: Open the copyright report form

Go to https://soundcloud.com/pages/copyright/report. Shortcut: on any offending track, click the Report button below the waveform and choose the copyright infringement option, it routes to the same form. You'll be asked to sign in to a SoundCloud account; if you can't use the form at all, SoundCloud's Help Center says notices can be emailed to [email protected].

Step 2: Identify who you are

State whether you're the rights holder or an authorized representative, a manager, label, or lawyer acting for the artist. Representatives should be prepared to show authorization if asked. Then add your name and contact email.

Step 3: Identify your original work

Describe the recording that was stolen and where the original lives: track title, artist name, and a link to your official upload or release. If the infringer pitched, sped up, or trimmed the track to dodge detection, say so, it helps the reviewer match the audio.

Step 4: Paste the infringing track URLs

Add the link for every unauthorized upload. SoundCloud reviews exactly what you list, so a note like "this user stole my whole EP" won't remove anything, each track URL needs to be in the report.

Step 5: Sign the declarations and submit

Complete the standard DMCA statements, good-faith belief that the use is unauthorized, accuracy of the information, and, under penalty of perjury, that you're the owner or authorized to act for them. Type your name as your signature and submit. Save the confirmation.

What happens after you file

Valid reports lead to the track being removed and the uploader notified; SoundCloud applies strikes, and repeat infringers can lose their accounts. The uploader can send a counter-notification, in which case the track may return unless you show you've filed a court action. Stolen music tends to resurface under new profiles, so search your track titles regularly. If monitoring and refiling across SoundCloud, YouTube, and file-sharing sites is eating your studio time, Rulta is a done-for-you DMCA takedown service that handles the hunting, filing, and follow-up for artists.

This guide is educational information, not legal advice.

Need the notice text?Generate a complete DMCA notice for SoundCloud — free, one minute

Exhibit A — official takedown formhttps://soundcloud.com/pages/copyright/report

Frequently asked questions

Where is SoundCloud's copyright report form?

At soundcloud.com/pages/copyright/report. You can also reach it by clicking the Report button below any track's waveform and choosing the copyright option.

Do I need a SoundCloud account to report infringement?

The webform asks you to sign in to a SoundCloud account. SoundCloud's Help Center says notices can be sent by email to [email protected] if you cannot use the online form.

Can I report a track that samples or remixes my song without permission?

Yes, unauthorized samples and remixes of your work can be reported through the same form. Identify your original recording and describe which parts were used.

What happens if I report a track that isn't actually mine?

SoundCloud warns that reporting content that does not belong to you (or someone you're authorized to represent) can result in suspension or termination of your own account, so only file for works you genuinely hold rights to.

Can the uploader dispute my report?

Yes. SoundCloud follows the DMCA process, so uploaders can file a counter-notification and the track may be restored unless you show you've filed a court action.