YouTube – Single Spam Flag Can Remove a Video

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In YouTube there is the option to flag a video, using the report feature below the video

Report icon

In the help section it is stated that

If you see a video that you know is spam, based on our Terms of Use and/or Community Guidelines, you can report it to us for review by clicking the "Flag" link under the video. Then follow the steps below:

  • Move your cursor over the "Select a reason" drop-down to see our flag menu
  • Click "Spam" as the reason for flagging
  • Click the "Flag This Video" button to report the video
  • The video will then be reviewed by our staff.

So I reported a video based on affiliate links, I assumed it would take a few days or the flag even rejected or at the very least be based on numerous other flags as well.

Reporting

The video was immediately removed

TOS removal

Before it looked like

Video before

What's the reasoning/logic for such a speedy action, it doesn't seem that the flag was actually reviewed. Is this a bug or will I able to kill videos with the single click of a button?

Best Answer

I am assuming that the video in question is this one? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6tVbS0c-3Y

Which I see as being removed for violating the terms of service.

I am guessing that either:

  • Your flag was immediately reviewed and upheld

Or

  • Certain flags, such as spam flags, mean the video is automatically removed. Once reviewed by a member of the YouTube team I presume it can either be reinstated or left as being removed.

It does seem really efficient if your flag was reviewed immediately but not impossible. The YouTube help documentation does state that any flagged videos are reviewed promptly 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

When YouTube users identify inappropriate content, as described in our Terms of Use and Community Guidelines, they are able to flag the video. Each flagged video is promptly reviewed by YouTube administrators (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) who immediately remove any content that violates the Terms of Use.

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