Meta has launched a new tool designed to protect Facebook Reels creators from unauthorized copying of their content. The feature, called Facebook content protection, automatically detects stolen reels and offers creators greater control over their original videos. Meta announced the rollout on Monday, underscoring its commitment to strengthening support for genuine creators across its platforms.
The company says creators will now receive alerts whenever their original Reels appear elsewhere without permission. This step follows rising concerns about content theft and impersonation on social platforms.
How the New Tool Monitors Reels
Creators will receive notifications when their videos are matched on Facebook or Instagram. They can then decide whether to block the matched reel, track its performance, add attribution links, or release their claim entirely. Meta says the system uses the same matching technology deployed in Rights Manager, which has long monitored copyrighted content.
The latest update arrives after Meta intensified efforts to reduce impersonation and spam. In July, Meta removed 10 million impersonating profiles and took action against 500,000 fake-engagement accounts. The company says these measures aim to protect legitimate creators and limit the influence of copycat accounts.
Eligibility Requirements for Content Protection
Meta has automatically enabled the feature for creators in the Facebook Content Monetization program. It is also available to creators who meet enhanced integrity and originality standards. Access continues to expand for creators using Rights Manager.
Creators can check their eligibility through feed notifications, their Professional Dashboard, or their profile. They can also apply for access through Facebook’s website.
Technology Powering the Detection System
The system highlights several metrics, including percentage match, views, follower count, and monetization status. Creators can also customize the detection settings. They may add approved accounts to an allow list to prevent unnecessary flags.
Meta offers creators multiple options after detection. They can release a claim, add attribution links, or track the performance of the matched video. Meta is also testing a new option that links directly to the original reel, while linking to the creator’s profile remains the default.
Handling Violations and Misuse
If a creator blocks a matched reel, Meta reduces the visibility of the copied content. However, uploading accounts do not face disciplinary action. Meta argues this approach prevents misuse of the reporting system. Nevertheless, creators who repeatedly submit false claims may face restrictions or lose access to the protection tool.
Tracking for Reels remains the default setting. If someone attempts to protect content they do not own, creators can file a copyright request through Meta’s IP reporting channel. They may also report missed matches using the “Can’t find a specific match?” option in the content protection dashboard.
Currently, the feature is available only on mobile, though Meta is testing a desktop version inside the Professional Dashboard.
