Spent the weekend editing a neat 10-minute skate clip compilation for my channel, uploaded it, and within 48 hours three different channels had the same footage reuploaded as “best moments” with watermarks scrubbed and zero credit. Meanwhile the originals barely break even thanks to mid-rolls and demonetized music. The algorithm eats the copycats and the actual curators get crumbs.

What actually works here besides filing endless DMCAs (which I simply do not have time for)? Is watermarking and making longer-form unique intros the only path, or can community practices like mass-reporting, creator coalitions, or platform pressure realistically change this? Would love to hear what honest tactics have helped you protect original edits without burning out.