YouTube Updates Monetization Policy, Targeting ‘Inauthentic’ Content
A recent update to YouTube’s Partner Program monetization policies, set to take effect on July 15, 2025, aims to clarify the platform’s stance on what constitutes “inauthentic content,” though experts suggest the changes won’t be as disruptive as some fear. The policy, formerly known as “reused content,” will now focus on identifying and limiting the monetization of mass-produced and repetitive material.
YouTube’s move comes as the platform seeks to prioritize original and authentic uploads, a commitment it has long maintained. While the update is being framed as a clarification rather than a radical overhaul, it has sparked concern among some creators who worry about potential demonetization.
According to a social media expert who manages multiple YouTube channels, the initial reaction was an overblown response. “The content that YouTube wants to discourage already did not meet its monetization criteria under existing policies, as the platform only promotes creators who produce original and authentic content,” the expert stated. “There are many YouTube channels that spread fake or inauthentic news or use inappropriate language. The platform regularly takes action against them and de-platform them. So, it’s good that people will now be more careful while uploading the content.”
The updated guidelines, detailed on the YouTube Help page, specifically target channels that rely on repurposing content from others, particularly in the form of Shorts and videos. A digital marketer and content specialist explained that channels currently monetizing content comprised of clips from other creators will likely see those revenue streams curtailed. However, she cautioned that even original creators could face scrutiny if their content is mass-produced or widely copied. “If clips or content of an original channel is mass-produced, the channel itself could come under YouTube’s scrutiny and may be flagged. This could lead to a shutdown or a ban.”
While some believe that strikes resulting from these policy changes are reversible, and original creators can restore their accounts, others argue that regaining lost ranking and viewership will be a significant challenge.
Initial anxieties centered around the potential demonetization of AI-generated content, often referred to as “AI slop” – repetitive, nearly identical videos frequently produced by numerous channels. However, the expert clarified that AI-generated videos are still permitted under the new rules, with the primary focus being on inappropriate content like deepfakes. He emphasized the importance of transparency, stating that creators utilizing AI tools should clearly disclose their use to avoid spreading misleading information.
A tech expert offered a nuanced perspective, noting the potential benefits for consumers. “As a consumer, I think [restricting AI-generated content] is great. Sure, there was a time when these videos were amusing but there is too much of them now.” However, he acknowledged the impact on creators, adding, “As a content creator, it does limit my options. A lot of people earned a lot of money from the videos that will now be restricted. Now they have to work harder in an already very competitive space. Also, this kind of starts a reinforcement learning-like war between content creators and YouTube. Creators will try to invent ways to circumvent this demonetization and YouTube will invent ways to capture their new ways.”
The evolving landscape of online content creation suggests a continuing arms race between platforms and creators, as both adapt to new technologies and strive to maintain authenticity in a rapidly changing digital world.
