What is fraud streaming?
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Fraud streaming, also known as artificial or bot streaming, involves illegitimate plays that do not reflect genuine listener activity. Here’s what fraud streaming is, how it happens and how artists can avoid it.
A fraud stream is an illegitimate play of music on a streaming service. Also known as artificial streaming, bot streaming or fraudulent streaming, it refers to plays that do not reflect genuine listener activity.
Fraudulent streams can be generated in several ways, including automated bots, click farms, and deceptive third-party promotion services. In some cases, an artist may knowingly attempt to boost their own streams, while in others, fraudulent activity may be carried out by a third party without the artist fully understanding how their music is being promoted.
Whatever the cause, streaming services take fraudulent activity seriously and may take action when illegitimate streams are detected.
‘Pay for Play’ services
A number of services online promise artists increased streams, playlist placements or a specific number of plays in exchange for payment. While not every music promotion service is illegitimate, artists should be extremely cautious of services that guarantee results.
Services promising a certain number of streams may use artificial methods to generate plays. This can include bots, click farms and other deceptive practices that do not reflect genuine listener activity.
Even if a promotion service claims that its streams are “real” or “genuine”, there is no guarantee that the activity is legitimate. Paying for guaranteed streams or playlist placements can put your music at risk.
If fraudulent streaming is detected, illegitimate revenue may be blocked, while revenue from genuine streams may still be earned in some cases. The affected release may also be removed from streaming services. Repeat offenders may face further action, including the closure of their distribution account.
If you’re considering using a music promotion service, make sure to research it carefully before paying for its services.
How to avoid fraud streaming
The best way to avoid fraud streaming is to focus on genuine audience growth and avoid any services that promise guaranteed streams, plays or playlist placements.
You should never attempt to artificially boost your own streams or pay someone else to do so. Be cautious when working with third-party promotion services and make sure you understand how they plan to promote your music.
It’s also important to remember that fraud streaming is not always carried out directly by the artist. If you notice unusual or suspicious activity on your music, acting early may help you identify where the streams are coming from and prevent further issues.
At RouteNote, fraud streaming is taken seriously by both us and our partner stores. If you’d like to learn more about protecting your music, read our guide on how to avoid artificial or fraudulent streaming.
If your release has already been flagged, you can also find out more about what an FSA or fraud streaming claim means.