It can be tempting to use third-party services that promise to guarantee streams. However, it's important to understand that these services may not be legitimate.


The consequences of using artificial streaming methods or streaming manipulation can be severe. If your music has been flagged on our partner Spotify's existing monthly reporting for artificial streaming, then you will receive a warning from us that could mean the content is already taken down. However, we can ensure that non-violating artists will not be impacted by artificial streaming penalties in any way.


When Spotify identifies confirmed cases of artificial streaming or stream manipulation, they take actions that may include the withholding of associated royalties, the correction of public streaming numbers, and measures to ensure the artist or song's popularity is accurately reflected in their charts. In some cases, Spotify can remove confirmed artificial streams from your data before your Spotify for Artists dashboard refreshes; in other cases, you may still see artificial streaming spikes in your Spotify for Artists data, even though associated royalties may be withheld.


Here are some tips to avoid artificial streaming and protect your music on Spotify.

1. Against paid third-party services that guarantee streams

Any service that claims to offer guaranteed placement on playlists on Spotify in exchange for money is in violation of the terms and conditions, and shouldn't be used. If you avoid engaging in artificial streaming, then you're at no risk of potential penalty.


2. Use Spotify's tools and resources to gain an authentic following

Read Spotify's blog as a guide to gaining an authentic following through Spotify's tools and resources. This includes creating engaging content, collaborating with other artists, and promoting your music through social media and other channels.


3. Share information with us if your music is authentic but overkilled

If you believe your streams were earned authentically, but your music has been removed from Spotify due to artificial streaming, please share information with us about the methods used to genuinely promote the content in question. We'll work with Spotify's team to review, and hopefully get the problem solved quickly.


Don't put your music at risk by using illegitimate music promotion services. By promoting your music in an authentic way, you can protect your music and ensure that your hard work is rewarded fairly.