An ISRC is supposed to identify a particular sound recording.

But what happens if somebody else uses yours?

The question has become particularly relevant following recent industry discussion about so-called “ISRC theft” — where an uploader submits music using an identifier associated with somebody else’s recording.

Here’s what artists need to know.

What is an ISRC?

An International Standard Recording Code identifies a specific recording.

Think of it as a permanent identifier for the master rather than the song title.

An ISRC can help DSPs, distributors and rights companies connect activity with the correct recording.

Can somebody copy your ISRC?

Technically, somebody can obtain an existing ISRC and enter it when submitting metadata through a system that allows user-supplied ISRCs.

That does not make them the owner of the recording.

An ISRC is an identifier.

It is not proof of copyright ownership.

The problem arises when somebody combines an existing identifier with unauthorised audio or misleading metadata.

Why would someone use another recording’s ISRC?

Possible reasons include attempting to:

  • make a fake recording look legitimate;
  • interfere with metadata;
  • impersonate another artist;
  • redirect or confuse royalties;
  • connect an unauthorised version with an established recording.

Whatever the motivation, artists should take unexpected ISRC usage seriously.

How do you find your ISRC?

Your distributor should provide the ISRC assigned to each recording.

Keep a permanent catalogue record containing:

  • track title;
  • artist;
  • ISRC;
  • UPC;
  • master owner;
  • release date;
  • distributor.

Do not rely entirely on one distributor dashboard.

What if you find your ISRC on another recording?

First, gather evidence.

Save:

  • links to the incorrect release;
  • screenshots;
  • your original ISRC record;
  • original master files;
  • distribution history;
  • contracts or ownership documentation.

Then contact your distributor and the relevant streaming platform.

Explain clearly that the ISRC belongs to your recording and identify the disputed release.

Does the ISRC prove you own the music?

No.

This is important.

An ISRC identifies a recording but does not itself establish ownership.

Useful ownership evidence can include:

  • recording agreements;
  • studio files;
  • dated masters;
  • producer agreements;
  • label agreements;
  • distribution history;
  • copyright registrations where applicable.

Should you reuse your ISRC when changing distributors?

Normally, when moving the exact same recording between distributors, retaining its existing ISRC can help preserve the recording’s identity.

That is legitimate reuse because it remains the same recording.

Using somebody else’s ISRC on unrelated audio is entirely different.

Keep a catalogue database

Even small independent artists should maintain a spreadsheet containing every release and identifier.

As your catalogue grows, those records become increasingly valuable.

Final thoughts

An ISRC is not a password.

Someone knowing your code does not suddenly give them ownership of your master.

But incorrect or fraudulent use can create serious metadata and rights problems.

Keep your catalogue records organised and investigate any release that appears to be using your identifiers without permission.