You open Spotify for Artists and see a new release.

There is one problem.

You never made it.

Fake or incorrectly mapped releases can confuse fans, distort analytics and damage an artist’s catalogue.

First determine what happened

There are two common situations.

The first is artist mapping.

Another legitimate artist has the same or similar name and their release has accidentally landed on your profile.

The second is impersonation or infringement.

Someone has deliberately uploaded music using your artist identity.

These require different responses.

Check the release

Record:

  • release URL;
  • artist credits;
  • label;
  • artwork;
  • release date;
  • track titles.

Listen to the audio.

If it is a mapping error

Use Spotify for Artists support to report music that does not belong on your profile.

Your distributor may also be able to submit a mapping correction.

Be clear that the music belongs to another artist rather than claiming copyright infringement.

If it is an unauthorised release

If someone is actually pretending to be you or distributing your recording, contact:

  • your distributor;
  • Spotify;
  • relevant rights-management representatives.

Provide evidence linking you to the legitimate artist identity.

Protect your identity

Maintain consistent official profiles across:

  • Spotify;
  • Apple Music;
  • YouTube;
  • Instagram;
  • TikTok;
  • your website.

A strong public identity makes verification easier.

Monitor your catalogue

Do not assume you will always notice a fake release immediately.

Check your artist profiles regularly.

This is becoming important enough that some distributors are building automated tools specifically to alert artists when unexpected releases appear.

Check every platform

If the release was distributed widely, Spotify may only be one destination.

Search your artist name on other DSPs too.

Final thoughts

Not every incorrect release is fraud.

Many are simple artist-mapping errors.

But genuine impersonation should be handled quickly.

Monitor your profiles, keep ownership evidence organised and report unexpected releases through official channels.