Google is reminding YouTube video creators that they better not pay for views (unless you count paying Google for ads), or they will face potentially harsh consequences.
The YouTube Team took to the Creators blog to put out the warning.
“Views generated by some third-party businesses and services will not be counted on YouTube, and can lead to disciplinary action against your account, including removing your video or suspending your account,” it says.
They are kind enough to remind creators that there are “legitimate paid options” like YouTube’s TrueView ads that can help inspire views.
Actually, last week, YouTube announced that it will give creators free TrueView ads to promote their channels, in what they’re calling Fan Finder.
“Remember that ultimately, you are responsible for your video traffic. If you contract a company that gives you spam instead of views, you pay the penalty, not the company,” YouTube says. “We’re trying to keep YouTube an even playing field for all creators like yourself, and to keep the focus on great content rather than quickly accumulating views. The next time you come across a company promising lots of views for cash, please think twice.”
Google has often touted YouTube as the “second largest search engine” in the past, so it makes sense that they treat it like search engine. Google doesn’t stand for paid links in web search, and it won’t stand for paid views in YouTube. Google has even penalized itself in the past for the actions a marketing company took on its behalf, so don’t think they’ll hesitate to take action against you.