Reddit is a common destination for leaked creator content. Dedicated subreddits exist specifically for sharing stolen photos and videos, and posts can spread across multiple communities within hours. Reddit posts also rank highly in Google search results, making them doubly damaging - not only is your content freely available, it is easily discoverable.
The good news: Reddit has a well-established copyright reporting process and generally responds within a few business days. Here is how to use it effectively.
Step 1: Document the Infringement
Before filing anything, gather your evidence. For each infringing post:
- Copy the full URL of the Reddit post
- Screenshot the post with the URL bar visible
- Note the subreddit name and the username of the poster
- Record the date and time you discovered it
- Save a copy of your original content with proof of creation (upload timestamps, metadata, platform analytics)
Step 2: File a Copyright Report with Reddit
Reddit has a dedicated copyright reporting form. Navigate to Reddit's copyright report page (search "Reddit copyright report" or find it in their help center) and provide:
- The URL(s) of the infringing Reddit post(s) - be specific, link to exact posts
- A description of your original copyrighted content
- Links to your original content proving ownership (your profile page, original upload URL)
- Your contact information (name, email, address)
- The required DMCA sworn statements (good faith belief, accuracy under penalty of perjury)
- Your electronic signature
You can report multiple posts in a single submission, which is more efficient when your content appears across multiple subreddits.
Step 3: Wait for Reddit's Response
Reddit typically processes copyright reports within 1-3 business days. When your report is approved, Reddit will:
- Remove the infringing post(s)
- Issue a warning or strike to the poster's account
- Send you a confirmation email
Repeat offenders may have their accounts suspended. Subreddits that consistently host infringing content may also face action from Reddit's trust and safety team.
Step 4: Handle Reposts
Removed content is frequently reposted by other users - sometimes within hours. This is the most frustrating part of Reddit content removal. For each repost, you need to file a new copyright report. Strategies for managing reposts:
- Monitor subreddits - Check the specific subreddits where your content was posted, as reposts often appear in the same communities.
- Report the subreddit - For subreddits that persistently host infringing content, report the subreddit itself to Reddit's trust and safety team. Include evidence of repeated infringement.
- Contact moderators - Subreddit moderators can add automod rules to block your username or content. Some moderators will cooperate if you explain the situation.
Step 5: Delist from Google
Reddit posts rank highly in Google search results due to Reddit's domain authority. Even after a post is removed from Reddit, the cached version may appear in Google search results for weeks. File a Google DMCA removal request to delist these URLs and prevent your content from being discoverable through search.
Automate Reddit Removals with DMCA.ME
DMCA.ME monitors Reddit continuously for your content and files takedown reports automatically. When removed content is reposted, we detect it within hours and file again - no manual work required. We also automatically file Google delisting requests for Reddit URLs that appear in search results.
Reddit removal is available on all plans. Get automated Reddit protection now.